The Zapatistas are a group of indigenous Mexicans who fight for improved rights and living conditions for indigenous people in Mexico. They are named after Emiliano Zapata, a leader in the early 20th century Mexican Revolution who advocated for indigenous rights. In the 1990s, the Zapatistas used harassment and sabotage against the Mexican government. They launched an armed uprising on January 1, 1994 to protest the North American Free Trade Agreement and the poor economic conditions facing indigenous people in the southern state of Chiapas, which produces significant resources but sees little return. While agreements were reached, the Zapatistas argue that more needs to be done to help indigenous communities with healthcare, housing, education, and

1. Unit 8 Notes Zapatistas

11. Armed Takeover in Chiapas 01/01/94