Article 27

Definition

Article 27 of the Mexican Constitution, enacted in 1917, is a pivotal provision that addresses land reform and the regulation of property ownership in Mexico. It aimed to reverse the historical concentration of land in the hands of a few elites, redistributing land to the agrarian population and reinforcing state control over natural resources. This article became a cornerstone of the post-revolutionary state, reflecting broader goals for social justice and economic equality.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Article 27 was revolutionary in promoting social equity by facilitating land redistribution to disenfranchised peasants following the Mexican Revolution.
2. It emphasized that land and natural resources were ultimately owned by the nation and that private ownership could be regulated or expropriated by the government for public benefit.
3. The implementation of Article 27 led to the creation of ejidos, which transformed agricultural practices by promoting collective farming among rural communities.
4. Over time, Article 27 evolved to adapt to changing political climates, particularly during the presidency of Lázaro Cárdenas, who aggressively pursued agrarian reform.
5. The article not only targeted land ownership but also addressed issues related to water rights and mineral resources, fundamentally altering the landscape of Mexican agriculture and industry.

Review Questions

• How did Article 27 aim to address the inequalities in land ownership in Mexico after the revolution?
  • Article 27 sought to combat the historical inequalities in land distribution by mandating the redistribution of land from wealthy landowners to peasant farmers. By establishing state control over land and resources, it aimed to dismantle the concentration of property that characterized pre-revolutionary Mexico. This provision was crucial in promoting social justice and ensuring that rural communities had access to productive resources necessary for their livelihoods.
• Evaluate the impact of Article 27 on rural communities and agricultural practices in Mexico during the early 20th century.
  • The impact of Article 27 on rural communities was profound as it facilitated the establishment of ejidos, enabling collective ownership and management of land. This shift transformed agricultural practices by fostering cooperation among farmers and improving access to resources like irrigation. However, challenges arose as varying interpretations and implementation processes sometimes led to disputes over land rights, affecting agricultural productivity and social relations within communities.
• Analyze how Article 27 reflects broader social and political changes in Mexico post-revolution and its legacy in contemporary Mexican society.
  • Article 27 embodies the aspirations for social equity and justice following the Mexican Revolution, showcasing a commitment to transforming socioeconomic structures. The article's emphasis on collective land ownership and state regulation of resources marked a significant departure from prior capitalist norms. Its legacy persists today as discussions around land reform, resource management, and indigenous rights continue to shape political discourse in Mexico, highlighting ongoing struggles for equality and sustainable development within rural areas.

Related terms

Ejido: A system of communal land tenure established under Article 27, allowing communities to collectively own and manage agricultural land.

Lázaro Cárdenas: The president of Mexico from 1934 to 1940, known for his significant agrarian reforms and the implementation of Article 27, particularly in redistributing land.

Land Reform: The process of changing laws and regulations to redistribute land from large landowners to peasant farmers, significantly influenced by Article 27.