Frida Kahlo Ep 1 of 7: But, First... A Tale of Olmecs, Pulque, and a Pastry War

Frida Kahlo has become a name synonymous with strength and independence. She was born during a crucial time in Mexico’s history and touched the lives of everyone she met.  She also was ridiculously hilarious in the face of horrifying personal events that would crush the average person. Seriously, this is gonna get depressing.

To prepare for our series, we’re taking 8,000 years of Mexican history straight to the face. We start with a bunch of rain, then traverse through a confusing calendar system, a necklace of golden shrimps, a not-so-triste-noche, and “utter tragedy and misery.” Also, some art is sprinkled in.

Buckle up as we learn about a Spanish king who hates pajamas and exorcisms, the French getting really ornery over baked goods, and America being on-brand with pretty much everything it does. And, then… Revolución!!!

Series Main Sources:

Ankori, Gannit. Frida Kahlo. London, 2013.

Drucker, Malka. Frida Kahlo - Torment and Triumph in her Life and Art. U.S.. 1991.

Fehrenbach, T.R. Fire & Blood - A History of Mexico. New York, 1995.

Herrera, Hayden. Frida - A Biography of Frida Kahlo. New York, 1982.

Kahlo, Frida. The Diary of Frida Kahlo, New York 1995.

Kahlo, Frida. Letters to Mama - You Are Always With Me. Mexico City, 2018.

Meyer, Michael C. and Sherman, William. The Course of Mexican History (2nd Ed.). Oxford, 1983.

Zamora, Martha. Frida Kahlo - The Brush of Anguish. San Francisco, 1990.