From the Forest to the City. The Indianization of Comitan and Las Margaritas, Chiapas

The migration process in Central America is studied, using data on migration for two important cities (Comitan & Las Margaritas) at the border of Chiapas state (Mexico) & Guatemala. The history, geography, & population of the two cities are described. The social processes of these areas are influenced by the processes of colonization & conflict over land, new religious movements, & military & political events. In the 1990s, the indigenous population & migrants left these areas to migrate further north. Interviews with 225 families in the two cities showed that most had experienced migration or multiple residences in the 1990s, especially with the 1994 Chiapas conflict. Migrant strategies for social reproduction & cultural practices under conditions of unemployment, violence, & insecurity are discussed. 2 Tables, 26 References. Adapted from the source document.