Ciudad Juárez

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Ciudad Juárez is a city located in the northern part of Mexico, in the state of Chihuahua. It is situated on the Rio Grande, across the border from El Paso, Texas, in the United States. Ciudad Juárez is one of the largest cities in the state of Chihuahua and serves as a major point of entry into Mexico from the United States.

History

Ciudad Juárez was originally known as El Paso del Norte when it was founded in 1659 by Spanish explorers. The city was renamed in 1888 in honor of Benito Juárez, a former president of Mexico who led the country during the turbulent period of the Reform War and the French intervention in Mexico.

Geography

Ciudad Juárez is located in the Chihuahuan Desert, characterized by its arid climate and extreme temperature variations. The city lies at an elevation of approximately 1,137 meters (3,730 feet) above sea level.

Economy

The economy of Ciudad Juárez is heavily influenced by its proximity to the United States. The city is a major manufacturing center, particularly known for its maquiladoras, which are factories that import materials and equipment on a duty-free and tariff-free basis for assembly or manufacturing and then re-export the assembled product. These factories are a significant source of employment in the region.

Demographics

As of the latest census, Ciudad Juárez has a population of over 1.5 million people, making it one of the most populous cities in Mexico. The city has a diverse population, with a mix of indigenous and mestizo heritage.

Culture

Ciudad Juárez has a rich cultural scene, with numerous festivals, museums, and theaters. The city is known for its vibrant music and dance traditions, including norteño music and ballet folklórico.

Education

The city is home to several institutions of higher education, including the Autonomous University of Ciudad Juárez (UACJ) and the Technological Institute of Ciudad Juárez (ITCJ).

Transportation

Ciudad Juárez is a major transportation hub, with several international bridges connecting it to El Paso, Texas. The city is served by the Abraham González International Airport, which offers flights to various destinations within Mexico and the United States.

Crime and Safety

Ciudad Juárez has faced significant challenges related to crime and violence, particularly due to the activities of drug cartels. Efforts have been made by both local and federal authorities to improve safety and reduce crime rates in the city.

Related Pages

• Chihuahua (state)
• El Paso, Texas
• Benito Juárez
• Maquiladora
• Reform War
• French intervention in Mexico
• Norteño music
• Ballet folklórico