OAXACA

estado (state), southern Mexico, bounded south by the Pacific Ocean, west by Guerrero, north by Puebla, northeast by Veracruz, and east by Chiapas. The state's territory, with an area of 36,275 square miles (93,952 square km), includes most of the Isthmus of Tehuantepec on its Pacific side. The Sierra Madre del Sur ends at the isthmus, which is low, hot, and arid. The Atlantic lowlands near Veracruz are hot and humid, but most of the state enjoys mild, healthful conditions. Remains of pre-Columbian Zapotec and Mixtec edifices are found at Mitla and Monte Albn. Descendants of these Indians, divided into more than 15 major tribes, form the majority of the population and the largest Indian community in Mexico. Oaxaca is an agricultural and mining area, the varied products of which include corn (maize), wheat, coffee, sugarcane, tobacco, fibres, and tropical fruits. Cigarettes, soap, and Indian blankets are manufactured for local consumption. Its mountains are veined with gold, silver, uranium, diamonds, onyx, and other deposits. Although the rail network is incomplete in Oaxaca, air connections are good, there are several Pacific ports, and the Pan-American Highway traverses the state, passing through Oaxaca city, the state capital. Pop. (1990 prelim.) 3,021,513. in full Oaxaca De Jurez, city, capital of Oaxaca estado (state), southern Mexico, lying in the fertile Oaxaca valley, 5,085 feet (1,550 m) above sea level. Founded in 1486 as an Aztec garrison and conquered by the Spaniards in 1521, Oaxaca has played an important role in Mexican history, being also the home of Benito Jurez and Porfirio Daz, two of Mexico's most famous presidents. Oaxaca is noted for its 16th-century art and architecture, for the nearby Mixtec ruins of Mitla and the Zapotec ruins of Monte Albn, and for its colourful handicraft (especially local handwoven textiles) market. The Benito Jurez Autonomous University of Oaxaca was founded there in 1827. Oaxaca is accessible by highway, railroad, and air. Pop. (1980) 170,000.