Instrumentalization of History in the Contemporary Political Discourse of the State of Yucatan (Mexico)

The article deals with the question of instrumentalization of history in modern politics of the southeastern Mexican state of Yucatan. The vast majority of modern states implement, in distinct forms and by different means, various actions that can be comprehended in the frame of memory politics. The latter is a complex of governmental measures, the objective of which is to implement a perspective of historical progress in a given society and its specific narrative. All of the above can be instrumentalized with political goals. Considering the prominent importance of historical narratives for legitimation of center-left Morena party power, led by Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador, which governs Mexico since the elections of 2018, it seems pertinent to analyze the influence of new narratives in the case of the state of Yucatan. This state, being a long-term and traditional bulwark of Mexican right-wing politicians, and characterized by a high proportion of native Maya population, is governed, since 2024 elections, by morenista governor J. Diaz Mena. Following the president’s example, he has begun to use the history and historical references in his public discourse. The study centers on the figure of Felipe Carrillo Puerto, state governor in 1922-1924, commemorative practices dedicated to him, and exploitation of his image in legitimation of Diaz Mena’s government. In contrast with official discourse this article proposes a brief review of collective memories from below, frequently in conflict with governmental perspective. This article shows the reproduction at local level of legitimizing practices based on symbolic and ideological heritage of the heroes of the past, whose legacy is carried on by the present governor.

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