Like all of Latin America, Mexico after independence in 1821 turned its back on a triple heritage: on the Spanish heritage, because we were newly liberated colonies, and on our Indian and black heritages, because we considered them backward and barbaric. We looked towards France, England and the U.S., to become progressive democratic republics.

In this quote, Carlos Fuentes, a renowned Mexican novelist and essayist, reflects on the challenges faced by Mexico after it gained independence in 1821. Fuentes argues that after achieving independence, Mexico, like much of Latin America, rejected its complex triple heritage: its Spanish heritage, its Indian heritage, and its black heritage. This rejection stemmed from a desire to distance itself from the colonial past and the social structures that were seen as backward or oppressive. Instead, Mexico and other Latin American nations looked to France, England, and the U.S. as models for becoming progressive and democratic republics.

Fuentes highlights the complexity of Mexico's identity after independence. The country struggled to reconcile its colonial history with its desire to build a new, modern nation. The Spanish heritage was rejected because of its colonial associations, while the Indian and black heritages were seen as obstacles to progress, often regarded as backward or barbaric by the elites of the time. This led to a cultural divide, where the indigenous and African influences on Mexican society were marginalized in favor of European and North American ideals.

The origin of this quote lies in Fuentes’ exploration of Mexico's post-independence identity, a theme central to his works. As a writer deeply engaged with Mexican history and culture, Fuentes often addressed how the country's struggles with its past shaped its political and social development. His statement reflects the broader Latin American tendency to look outward to Europe and the United States for inspiration, while neglecting the rich cultural and racial diversity within their own borders.

In essence, Fuentes' quote critiques the post-independence mindset that sought to sever ties with Mexico's diverse heritages in favor of a more Eurocentric vision of progress. By emphasizing the rejection of Spanish, Indian, and black cultures, he underscores the complexity of building a modern nation while ignoring or dismissing the historical and cultural realities that shaped its people. Fuentes’ words reflect a deep concern about how these historical dynamics continue to influence Mexican society today.