Weekly Recess

How Xico in Mexico Transformed from Volcano to Lake to Farmland

Posted on October 23, 2025 (October 5, 2025) by weeklyrecess_admin

Xico, located near Mexico City, has a fascinating geological and cultural history that tells a story of transformation—once a violent volcano, then a serene lake, and today a fertile expanse of farmland. This transformation reflects the dynamic forces of nature and human intervention over centuries. This article explores the journey of Xico’s volcanic crater from its fiery origins through its time as a lake and how it ultimately became rich soil supporting agriculture and community life. […]

Underground Railroad to Mexico freed thousands of slaves in 1829

Posted on April 12, 2023 (May 10, 2024) by weeklyrecess_admin

Slavery was abolished in Mexico in 1829. Slaves were escaping to Mexico, and slaveholders in the US were aware of this. The US attempted to get Mexico to sign a fugitive slave treaty, which would have required Mexico to send back escaped slaves to the US. But, Mexico refused, arguing that slaves were free as soon as they set foot on Mexican soil. […]

Did Gil Pérez Really Teleport from Manila to Mexico Overnight? The 1593 Mystery

Posted on November 11, 2022 (August 11, 2025) by weeklyrecess_admin

On October 24, 1593, while performing his guard duties at Manila’s Governor’s Palace in the Philippines, Gil Perez stopped to lean against a wall and sleep for a while. He opened his eyes to find himself in an unusual environment. Gil was in the Plaza Mayor in Mexico City. They imprisoned Perez, but the authorities in Mexico City decided to release him and return him home. […]