Toluca

The city of Toluca was founded on June 19, 1525, by Spanish settlers. This marked the beginning of Toluca's history as a colonial settlement in the New World. The city was established on the ancient lands of the Matlatzincas, a native Mesoamerican people. The city's founding was part of the broader Spanish conquest of the region, which saw the establishment of numerous cities and towns. Toluca quickly grew to become an important administrative and religious center in the viceroyalty of New Spain.

The Battle of Monte de las Cruces, fought on October 30, 1810, was a significant engagement during the Mexican War of Independence. Miguel Hidalgo's insurgent army fought and defeated the royalist forces near Toluca. This victory opened the path towards Mexico City for the insurgents, although they ultimately decided not to attack the capital at this time. The battle demonstrated the strength and commitment of the independence movement in New Spain and fueled further revolutionary actions.

On February 2, 1830, Toluca was designated as the capital of the State of Mexico, a position it holds to this day. This decision was made as part of the reorganization of Mexican states in the newly independent country. As the state capital, Toluca became a central hub for government and political activities in the State of Mexico. Over the years, the city has developed into an important economic and cultural center, offering educational, industrial, and commercial opportunities.

The centennial celebration of Mexican independence was held on September 16, 1910, with significant festivities in Toluca. The city participated in national celebrations commemorating 100 years since the start of the Mexican War of Independence. Various public events, parades, and speeches were held to honor this milestone, reflecting on the sacrifices made during the struggle for independence and the progress achieved by the nation since then. These events were part of a nationwide celebration across Mexico.

On October 26, 1967, the Universidad Autónoma del Estado de México (UAEM) was established, although its origins can be traced back to the Literary Institute of Toluca, founded in the mid-19th century. The establishment of UAEM marked significant progress in higher education within the region, providing opportunities for academic advancement and research. The university has become a leading institution in the state, contributing significantly to education, culture, and social development in Toluca and beyond.

The earthquake that occurred on September 19, 1985, in Mexico City, also had significant effects in Toluca and the surrounding region. The city experienced structural damage and disruption due to the quake. This natural disaster prompted reviews of building codes and emergency preparedness not only in Toluca but across the country. The quake highlighted the need for improved infrastructure and readiness plans to mitigate the impacts of such events in the future.

On March 13, 1995, Toluca International Airport was officially opened. It has since played a crucial role in connecting the city domestically and internationally. The airport's establishment was an essential step in boosting the economic development of Toluca, facilitating trade, tourism, and transportation. Over the years, it has developed into a vital infrastructure element supporting the growing needs of the region and enhancing Toluca's status as a central hub in the State of Mexico.

The Mexican League, the top tier of professional baseball in Mexico, returned to Toluca on August 10, 2009, when the club Potros Salvajes de Toluca played its first season game. This marked the return of high-level baseball to the city after some years of absence, offering sports entertainment to baseball fans in the region. The presence of a professional team bolstered local interest in baseball and provided a venue for family-friendly sporting events.

In September 2011, Toluca's famous Cosmovitral Botanical Garden inaugurated an eco-parking lot. This development was part of the city's initiative to promote sustainable tourism and improve infrastructure with environmental considerations. The eco-parking serves both local and international visitors, enhancing the botanical garden's ability to accommodate guests while maintaining ecological balance. The launch signified Toluca's commitment to environmental sustainability alongside tourism development.

On September 19, 2018, Toluca participated in a nationwide earthquake preparedness drill, commemorating the anniversary of the devastating 1985 earthquake. This annual event aims to increase public awareness and readiness for potential earthquakes. The drill simulated different scenarios, and participants practiced evacuation procedures, highlighting the importance of preparedness in minimizing casualties and damage during actual seismic events. Activities were coordinated to include citizens, businesses, and government agencies.