Corrido de La Muerte de Zapata

The song "Corrido de La Muerte de Zapata" is a traditional Mexican corrido, a form of narrative ballad that often tells the stories of heroes, battles, and significant events in Mexican history. This particular corrido recounts the life and death of Emiliano Zapata, a leading figure in the Mexican Revolution and a champion of agrarian rights. The lyrics serve as a tribute to Zapata's fight for land and freedom for the poor, as well as a lament for his assassination in 1919.

The corrido begins by setting the scene of Zapata's death in Chinameca, marking it as a dark moment in history. It then reflects on Zapata's commitment to the cause of the peasants and indigenous people, highlighting his efforts to secure land rights through the Plan de Ayala, a manifesto that called for land reforms. The song portrays Zapata as a brave and beloved leader who stood up against the injustices of the time, including the policies of presidents like Francisco Madero and Venustiano Carranza.

The narrative continues with the betrayal and murder of Zapata, orchestrated by Colonel Jesús Guajardo under the orders of General Pablo González. The lyrics describe how Zapata was lured into a trap with the false promise of Guajardo's surrender, only to be ambushed and killed. Despite the tragedy, the corrido ends with a message of hope and resilience, suggesting that Zapata's spirit and cause will live on. The final verses, which speak of a flower taken to Zapata's grave and the belief that he will return, symbolize the enduring impact of his legacy on the Mexican people.