This atlas, a part of a larger project devoted to developing a database of population of Mexico, will enhance understanding of Mexico, broaden US perspectives on Mexico, and interest others in using the data and maps in the information system.

With a population of 15 million persons in 1990, Mexico City is one of the world's largest cities. It is a famous center of civilizations and culture and one of the economic capitals of the Americas, but it also has serious social and economic problems, including large impoverished zones, severe environmental degradation, crime, and overpopulation.

This reference incorporates information from the 1990 Mexican census and combines a wealth of historical data with revised graphs and improved maps showing social and economic change over the past century, particularly over the past decade.