José Guadalupe Posada worked during a time of political unrest. France occupied Mexico from 1861 until 1867. Following the presidencies of Benito Juárez and Sebastián Lerdo de Tejada, General Porfirio Díaz succeeded following two revolts. Díaz’s presidency (1877-1880, 1884-1911) and European influence, particularly French, contributed greatly to class division and a breakdown in identity.
The modernization of Mexico under Díaz brought forth a capitalist, commodity-producing economy. These transformations, along with a repressive government and unchecked wealth of the elite, led to rising tension between social classes. The calaveras (skeletons) became a symbol for mocking the garbanceros, the elite who imitated European fashion and behavior. This appealed to Arroyo and Posada’s primary audience–the urban lower-class.
Faith and the Church were important to the lower socio-economic populace. Many religious illustrations connected people of the day with Christ and the Virgin Mary on a personal level. This concept was likely inspired by similar European images that were introduced to Mexico in the 19th century.
The rise of class distinction had a profound effect on society and a rise in crime and death. Arroyo and Posada took advantage of this seedier side of life and sensationalized stories to offer entertainment and perspectives on morality in troubling times. Many broadsides feature fictional accounts of true events, evolving into mocking obituaries of people still living.