For more information see the Mexico profile.

The United Mexican States is Latin America's fourth largest country, with the regions second largest population. Its varied topography ranges from the arid plateaus of the north to the southern mountains and rain forests. Exploitation of oil and development of industry has benefitted the top third of the population, but the poverty of the poorer two-thirds has increased.

Mexico became independent from Spain in 1821, and the 1910-17 revolution led to a federal democracy dominated by the PRI party, which has ruled ever since. There is currently a large degree of unrest, as the common people have grown weary of corruption and poverty.

Mexico has freedom of religion, and foreign missionaries have only recently received official recognition. Evangelical churches are growing at phenomenal rates. Ministry to Mexico's young people is vital, since over 50% of the population is under 20 years of age.