La Catrina is one of the most recognized symbols of el Día de Muertos, but her origins were not related to this popular celebration.

This iconic figure first appeared in a satirical zinc etching created by Mexican cartoon illustrator José Guadalupe Posada that took aim at people of middle and upper class who rejected their native heritage in favor of assimilating into European culture.

Years later, renowned Mexican muralist Diego Rivera completed her current appearance when he included her in one of his murals elegantly dressed, which also earned her the name of "La Catrina".

Click play to hear the fascinating history of this iconic character!