The Zapotec people are the 'People of the Clouds' with a history of gender fluidity.

Cultures · Published 30 September 2026 Swipe more like this →

In short: Known as the Bën Za, or People of the Clouds, the Zapotec civilization has thrived in Oaxaca for millennia. Beyond their ancient cities and unique writing systems, they maintain a complex social structure where traditional gender roles are currently being reshaped by global markets and a unique third-gender identity.

The Zapotec civilization is one of Mesoamerica's oldest, with roots in the Central Valley of Oaxaca dating back to at least 1150 BCE. By the Monte Alban I period, between 500 and 300 BCE, they had established a sophisticated system of governance. Their society was deeply religious; leaders were trained in spiritual rites, and high priests like the ouija-tào held immense influence. They worshipped a pantheon including Pitao Cozobi, the god of maize, and Cocijo, the god of rain and lightning.

Modern Zapotec life is marked by a matrifocal structure where women have historically held significant household authority. While traditional roles often segregated labor by sex—with men handling agriculture and women managing the home—globalization has shifted this dynamic. Since the mid-20th century, women have increasingly dominated the textile and merchant sectors, becoming central to the regional economy. Despite this, their work is sometimes undervalued by local standards, which still prioritize masculine-coded labor as the primary measure of status.

A defining feature of Zapotec culture, particularly in the Isthmus of Tehuantepec, is the existence of the Muxe. These individuals exist outside the traditional male-female binary, often identifying as neither. Muxes are frequently respected members of the community, known for taking on caregiving roles for elderly parents. This acceptance reflects a broader cultural appreciation for femininity. Today, Zapotec identity continues to evolve, blending ancient traditions with modern political activism, such as the COCEI movement, which defends indigenous land rights and female-led marketplaces.

The Zapotec legacy also includes figures like Benito Juárez, the first president of Mexico of indigenous origin. Today, the population is estimated between 400,000 and 650,000, with many maintaining their native languages and social organizations even after emigrating to the United States. From the ancient temples of Monte Alban to the contemporary textile workshops of Teotitlan, the Zapotec people remain a resilient force in Mexican history.

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