Quinceaneras History of Womanhood
The Quinceaneras (La Quinceanera or Mis Quince) tradition dates back from around 500 BC at the time of the Aztecs; however, some claim that the Spanish conquerors brought this tradition to Mexico (the Mayans) in the 1500s. It is said that the Spanish conquerors were accustomed to European balls, which were very lavish and similar to the quinceanera.
This tradition is popular today in Mexico, South America, the United States, and many more Spanish-speaking cultures. When this word is divided, you will see two distinctive meanings -“quince” and “anera” (a derivative of el año)-15 and year, which can be translated as “15th birthday”. This is the time where girls become women; they will start to fulfill all of the responsibilities of a woman with pride. Responsibilities include work, volunteer duties, household duties, and marriage.
Today, Mexican girls look forward to this joyous occasion. This special occasion is filled with much tradition and has been this way for many years throughout history. Around this timeframe, boys would have the opportunity to test their courage and freedom from childhood to manhood.
The quinceanera tradition begins with a Thanksgiving Mass, which is called the Misa de Acción de Grácias. Quinceaneras take a considerable amount of preparation and is compared to your traditional mexican wedding. A head chamberlain, maids of honor, godparents, other chamberlains, as well as her mother and father will escort the lovely quinceanera. Everyone will be in formal attire and the quinceanera will either stand out in her unique ball gown or she will choose to stand out in exquisite jewelry.
Historically, ball gowns did not exist, however, the quinceanera would still be dressed in a way that would distinguish her from the rest.
In ancient times quinceaneras would be conducted in the local community. Today it is conducted in the parents’ church; this is to reconfirm the vows made at their daughter’s baptismal. Throughout the history of the quinceanera, there have been many different traditions that have been passed.
One tradition that continues to be passed down is the use of music. In the ancient Aztec era, music has always been able to liven up the celebration. The dance and dinner celebration usually follows the quinceanera ceremony.
In 1697 Charles Perrault wrote and then published the book “Every Quinceanera wants to be the Princess at her Quince celebration”. This popular book, which resembled the traditional Cinderella story, was cherished and loved by many girls waiting for this special occasion.
