Tlaxcala is a fascinating state located in East-Central Mexico. This small, yet culturally significant region is rich in history and traditions that continue to play a vital part in Mexico’s identity. Teaching students about Tlaxcala provides them with a broader understanding of Mexican culture, history, influencing both pre-Hispanic and colonial times.

An essential starting point when teaching about Tlaxcala is its history. Known as the smallest state in Mexico, Tlaxcala has a giant historical significance. Before Spanish conquest, predominant indigenous group that inhabited this region were the Tlaxcalans. They were known for their resilience and camaraderie during hardships, particularly during the Spanish invasion.

Notably, they assisted Hernan Cortes and his men during the conquest of the Aztec Empire. Stories of these historic events will intrigue students and give them a detailed perspective regarding the diplomacy and warfare of ancient civilizations.

Next, students can learn about the state’s geography within Mexico. Surrounded by Puebla to the east, Hidalgo to the north, Mexico State to the west and Morelos to the southwest, Tlaxcala’s location provides it with a diverse climate ranging from cool tropical to continental influenced by elevation. Its topography consists of three main elements – valleys, mountains and plateaus which greatly influence the lifestyle and economy of its inhabitants.

The vibrant culture of Tlaxcala mirrors its colorful festivals known nationally. One such festival is “Carnaval,” where locals adorn intricate costumes portraying stories through dance routines during parades. Another one is “El Festival Internacional de Títeres Rosete Aranda”. It is an international puppet festival attracting puppeteers from around the world who perform utilizing various forms of puppetry technique. These cultural highlights present an opportunity for students to engage with traditional Mexican arts while learning about its cultural heritage.

Lastly, Tlaxcala’s rich cuisine offers another gateway into the state’s culture – from traditional dishes such as tamales tlaxcaltecas and mole prieto; all tell stories about historical culinary practices and regional ingredients native to Tlaxcala.

In summary, educating students about Tlaxcala is not just an enriching exploration of this specific state but also provides a deep dive into broader themes – history, geography, culture(food,music,dance), which go beyond the borders of Mexico offering a multifaceted learning experience. Thus presenting an engaging way for them to connect past events with present occurrences contributing towards shaping their global perspectives.