Mexican history is rich and diverse, beginning with ancient civilizations like the Maya and Aztec empires, which thrived long before European contact. These cultures made significant advancements in agriculture, mathematics, and astronomy. In 1519, Hernán Cortés arrived, leading to the fall of the Aztec Empire and the beginning of Spanish colonization, which lasted for nearly 300 years. In the early 19th century, Mexico fought for independence from Spain, achieving it in 1821. The country faced challenges, including the Mexican-American War and internal conflicts, but it eventually established a republic. The Mexican Revolution in the early 20th century aimed to address social inequalities and shaped modern Mexico.