Final answer:
Poor peasants in Mexico seek better lives in "El Norte" due to economic instability, lack of opportunities (especially in Chiapas, where exploitation is rampant), and the allure of better prospects in the U.S. economy.
Step-by-step explanation:
A large number of poor peasants in Mexico were forced to seek a better life in "El Norte" due to a combination of factors. These include a lack of job opportunities and economic instability, particularly in rural areas, caused by the push-pull relationship resulting in a strong rural-to-urban shift, similar to those observed throughout the developing world. Moreover, the increasing population contributes to higher unemployment in urban centers, escalating this issue.
The state of Chiapas is an example of how structural inequalities and exploitation by large landowners exacerbate the lack of economic opportunities for the local population, prompting a search for better living conditions elsewhere. Additionally, political corruption, unstable governance, and disparities in wealth distribution add to the problem, making rural life untenable for many.
Many Mexicans migrate north hoping for better prospects, often finding jobs in the U.S. economy that are typically low-paid but critical roles that domestic workers are unwilling to undertake. Despite their contribution, many of these workers live and work illegally in the United States, reflecting the incomplete political approach to the issue of illegal immigration.