aciendas abounded in the state until the advent of synthetic products after World War II, the cultivation of Henequ�n in other parts of the world and the self-serving actions of some of the leading henequen-growing families led to the gradual decline of the Yucatan's monopoly on the industry.
The incredible influx of wealth during that period from the henequn industry focused mainly on Merida, the capital of Yucatan State. It allowed the city of M�rida to install street lights and a tram system even before Mexico City. It is said that in the early 20th century, the city had the largest number of millionaires per capita in the world. Today, Paseo de Montejo (inspired by the Parisian avenue Champs-�lys�es), is lined with the elegant houses built during that time. These houses are mostly now renovated and serve as everything from private homes to banks, hotels and restaurants. Many of the haciendas today have also been renovated and now serve as private homes, event venues and upscale luxury hotels.
Late 20th century
Until the mid-20th century most of Yucat�n's contact with the outside world was by sea; trade with the USA and Cuba, as well as Europe and other Caribbean islands, was more significant than that with the rest of Mexico. In the 1950s Yucat�n was linked to the rest of Mexico by railway, followed by highway in the 1960s, ending the region's comparative isolation. Today Yucat�n still demonstrates a unique culture from the rest of Mexico, including its own style of food.
Commercial jet airplanes began arriving in M�rida in the 1960s, and additional international airports were built first in Cozumel and then in the new planned resort community of Canc�n in the 1980s, making tourism a major force in the economy of the Yucat�n Peninsula.
The first Maya governor of Yucat�n, Francisco Luna Kan, was elected in 1976.
Today, the Yucat�n Peninsula is a major tourism destination, as well as home to one of the largest
