Place names in Tetepango, Hidalgo: A Window to the History of its Localities

Abstract

In the following article, we examine the place names in the municipality of Tetepango, in the state of Hidalgo, Mexico, including the municipal capital and two small towns: Ulapa de Melchor Ocampo and Juandhó. These populations are part of the region currently known as Valle del Mezquital. In terms of the methodology, we use an ethnohistorical approach, in which we recover different toponyms, graphic signs of codices and colonial sources to evaluate their meaning, changes, and permanence in the Nahuatl, Otomí-Hñähñu languages and Spanish itself. Through this analytical exercise, we can understand part of the History, and worldview of these localities, in which the Nahua and Otomi groups had their seat and home since pre-Hispanic times. Likewise, this academic work contributes to understand the importance of toponymic analysis as a primary source for history. Based on rigorous contextualization, we can obtain data on geographical space, ways of life, identity, and other social variables.

            Likewise, this academic work contributes to understanding the importance of toponymic analysis as a primary source for History, based on a rigorous contextualization we can obtain data on geographical space, ways of life, identity and other social variables.