In what ways have Mexican cartels used religion and popular culture for the purpose of legitimising the drug trade?

While the cartels continue to make Mexico a violent and turbulent country, with more than 200,000 people killed since 2006, public opinion regarding the cartels remains divided. Instead of condemning their actions, some idolise the cartels, imitating their clothing or singing about their exploits. This thesis asserts that in order to operate as criminal organisations (extorting money, causing high levels of violence and trafficking both people and drugs) cartels have used popular culture and religion in an effort to legitimise the industry. In order to assess this statement, this thesis has used existing literature, newspaper articles, journals and questionnaires. The information gathered shows that although narco-cultura and religion play a complex role in society, both have enabled the cartels to transform their public image. Firstly, both narco-cultura and religion are used in an effort to legitimise the cartels by combining the legends and traditions of marginalised groups. Secondly, it enables cartels to display their power and wealth obtained through defeating the state. Lastly, religion creates a moral motivation to participate in or support drug trafficking. In essence, the use of narco-cultura and religion by cartels is an attempt to achieve control, legitimacy, and morality. Ultimately, the Mexican drug trade offers the public what the state fails to provide.