Charrera is a traditional practice in livestock herding communities in Mexico. It was initially used to help herders manage livestock from different estates better coexist. New generations learned the methods and then passed them on to younger generations within families.
These days, charrera associations and schools assist in continuing transmission of the tradition, also considered to be a sport, by training members of the community up to a competition level.
The Mexican traditional practice of livestock herding was first utilized to help herders coexist with livestock from different estates. It is a tradition acquired through horseback riding, rodeo, equestrian activities, and traditional forms of cattle. This practice is part of Mexican culture and is a source of pride.
The charreada is a Spanish equestrian event that was previously confined to men. The escaramuza or skirmish is now the final and tenth event and involves women's teams competing in precisely choreographed patterns for horses. The event involves women dressed in a style reminiscent of the nineteenth century.
It is believed that the Adelitas, or women of the revolution, were the immediate antecedents of the present Escaramuzas. It is thought that the women would ride off on horseback, raising a cloud of dust, which would fool the Federales into thinking an attack was coming from that direction.
Charreria is performed in front of an audience, referred to as charreadas. Spectators to view livestock herding skills, such as reining and roping using wild bulls and mares. Herders display their skills on foot or on horseback while wearing traditional clothing that includes a wide-brimmed hat for the charro (male herder), and a colorful shawl for the charra (female herder), as well as equipment such as saddles and spurs made by local artisans.
Charrerla is considered an essential element of the identity of bearer communities. It can also be seen as a way of transferring critical social values to the younger generations, such as respect and equality among the community members. At present, purpose-built charreria associations and schools contribute to preserving the tradition, which is also considered a sport, by training members of the community, including up to competition levels.
Since the Charreria was registered in the National Sports Commission as the nation's sport of excellence, it's practiced in "Lienzos Charros", which are specially designed for use in the competition, along with a horse and rider. These days, the charreada is predominantly associated with the state of Jalisco in western Mexico. This is not surprising, since charreria developed alongside mariachi, which is also culturally significant music in this state.