The Aztec and Mayans or Meso-American cultures were very much into keeping the head or skull of a dead relative or enemy in homes and temples. The skull was to honor the memory of the one who had died or passed on.

For 3000 years the indigenous people of Mexico celebrated the dead. The skulls were trophies from wars or well loved relatives. They symbolized death and rebirth.

The Spaniards tried to kill the tradition of honoring the dead. They saw it as barbaric and ungodly. But as much as they tired they couldn’t kill the old Aztec spirit or the spirit of the ancients, so they tried to make the ritual more Christian by making the Indians practice the ritual on All Saints Day (Nov. 1 ).

Dia de los Muertos, or day of the dead is celebrated a bit differently in various areas of Mexico. In some cities it is a big party celebration. People dress up as skulls and dance in a parade down main street. They eat sweet bread and other confections and dance all night long while drinking tequila.

Mexican Americans, particularly in the areas of Arizona, Texas and New Mexico love celebrating Dia de los Muertos. The holiday has become part of the Latino experience in America, thus making it a very American experience.

On the night of Halloween, the matriarch of a family creates an altar placing the photos of all those who have died in semi circle. Candles light the altar and sometimes-sweet treats or an item of the person’s favorite food are clothing is arranged at the altar. The sugar skulls represent the souls of the dearly departed, and usually the loved one's name is written on the skull.

The family gather together for dinner that evening and talk about the persons who passed away, remembering the good times they all shared together.

The next day on Nov. 1, All Saints Day, the family goes to the gravesites of the beloved and they clean weeds and work to decorate the site and usually have a picnic at the grave site as well.

Mama brings a big basket of tacos, pan dulce (sweet bread) and other goodies to enjoy at the gravesite. Sometimes Mexican communities get together and have gravesite competitions with prizes going to the best decorated site.

Dia de los Muertos is a fascinating holiday and a great way to remember loved ones from the past, and to keep a connection with those who are living.

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