The Xoloitzcuintli: Ancient Dog Breed to Movie Celebrity (Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) 2024)

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Video Title: The Xoloitzcuintli: Ancient Dog Breed to Movie Celebrity (Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) 2024)
Description: Museum folklorist Cynthia Vidaurri presents a talk on the xoloitzcuintli, commonly referred to as the Mexican hairless, an ancient dog breed that is deeply engrained in the culture and cosmologies of Mexico’s original peoples. These dogs were believed to be companions in life and in the afterlife, guiding souls to their final resting place. The character Dante in the Disney/Pixar animated film Coco introduced xolos to people outside Mexico and became a fan favorite. The breed was on the verge of extinction but has made a dramatic comeback, and today is recognized as a symbol of Mexico. Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) is a time for commemorating our ancestors. Rather than a period of mourning, it is an occasion for celebrating with family—both living and dead—and honoring the cycle of life.
Video Duration: 48 min 16 sec
YouTube Keywords: Native American Indian Museum Smithsonian "Indigenous Peoples" "Smithsonian Institution" "Smithsonian NMAI" "National Museum of the American Indian"