0 
Children of Zapata
| Length: | 24 min |
| Released: | 1996 |
| Ages: |
High School College Adult |
Children of Zapata looks at the Zapatista National Liberation Army's struggle to attain justice for the Maya Indians of Chiapas. These last remaining descendants of the proud ancient Mayas have been ruthlessly marginalized by the Mexican government. Their land is the least arable, they live in grinding poverty, they are jailed and tortured for asserting their rights.
In January 1994, after peaceful demonstrations failed, the Zapatista guerrillas staged a revolt, occupying four towns including San Cristobal. Although quickly squashed, they won a major propaganda victory, focusing world attention on the abuses of power in Mexico.
The film highlights their struggle, including footage of the controversial "Red Bishop" of Chiapas, Samuel Ruiz; the elusive subcommandante Marcos, leader of the Zapatista, and Armado Avandanio of El Tiempo, the independent Mexican newspaper.
In January 1994, after peaceful demonstrations failed, the Zapatista guerrillas staged a revolt, occupying four towns including San Cristobal. Although quickly squashed, they won a major propaganda victory, focusing world attention on the abuses of power in Mexico.
The film highlights their struggle, including footage of the controversial "Red Bishop" of Chiapas, Samuel Ruiz; the elusive subcommandante Marcos, leader of the Zapatista, and Armado Avandanio of El Tiempo, the independent Mexican newspaper.
"Through artistically shot footage, interviews with academics, and well-edited images...this film gives a glimpse of the repressive situation that erupted in rebellion just as the NAFTA agreement got underway." Science Books & Films
Southwest Council for Latin American Studies, 1996
Bronze Apple, National Educational Film Festival, 1996
Bronze Apple, National Educational Film Festival, 1996
