A U.S. Imperialist or Mexican Philanthropist? Understanding William O. Jenkins

Abstract

Andrew Paxman has written the definitive account of William Jenkins—often considered the richest man in mid-twentieth century Mexico. Paxman’s lengthy biography is extensively investigated and based on research in three countries at twenty-three different archives. In addition, Paxman consulted fifteen sets of privately held papers and interviewed seventy individuals, including family members, business partners, and others who knew Jenkins. This, combined with Paxman’s spirited writing style, makes for a compelling read that will engage scholars interested in modern Mexico, bilateral relations, and the evolution of capitalism in the developing world. Jenkins grew up on a Tennessee farm and—despite being a genius with numbers—pursued a bachelor’s degree in literature and languages at Vanderbilt University. In 1901 he moved to San Antonio, Texas with his wife Mary Street in hope of becoming a successful businessman and winning the approval of his elitist Nashville in-laws. Seeing greater economic opportunity further south, within months Jenkins and Mary moved to Mexico. Unlike most American investors who spent little time south of the border, Jenkins made Mexico—particularly the city and state of Puebla—his home for the next sixty years. Also unlike many industrialists and absentee landowners, Jenkins got his hands dirty by working in the factories and fields that he owned or transporting supplies and finished products. As Paxman illustrates, he similarly set himself apart from Mexico’s domestic and foreign elite by not drinking, entertaining, having a mistress, attending mass, or using the press to defend himself.