Anti-Americanism in Mexico, 1910-1913

Abstract

T HE anti-Americanism of Mexican Revolution is usually associated with actions of Ambassador Henry Lane Wilson during decena tragtca, with occupationa of Veracruz, or with Pershing expedition against Francisco Villa. In fact it had been a problem since earliest days of Revolution. Not simply a reaction against American military intervention, it also resulted from inherited antagonisms, from resentment against American feelings of superiority, and from dislike of treatment given to Mexican citizens in United States. During Madero and Huerta administrations, two of most powerful stimulants to anti-Americanism were personal animosities against American revolutionary fighters and attempts of Mexican factions to win popular support through appeals to xenophobic nationalism. In short run this anti-Yankeeism prepared Mexicans for resistance to Woodrow Wilson 's Mexican policy. In long run it has lastingly strengthened bonds of Mexican nationalism, even though its old stridency has largely disappeared. Even before fall of Porfirio Diaz, Department of State was apprehensive about Mexican antagonism to United States. In response to a request for information on anti-Americanism during March 1911, American consuls in many parts of Mexico reported it to be deep and widespread. Consul Samuel E. Magill at Guadalajara told Secretary of State Philander C. Knox that the anti-American sentiment is almost universal among rich and poor alike. He added that at national celebrations, such as commemoration of Hidalgo's Grito de Dolores on night of September 15, Mexican mobs paraded through streets crying Death to Americans.1 Linking antiAmericanism with general xenophobia and with hostility to Diaz