1. Who is the character you are representing? — Describe his or her beliefs and role.
I am Antonio López de Santa Anna Pérez de Lebrón more commonly known as Santa Anna or the “Napoleon of West.” I am the savior of Mexico many times over, most recently after defeating the French and a loyal patriot back to when we achieved our independence from Spain. My allegiance lies with no ideology but instead with Mexico herself and to that end I have often acted more conservatively than liberally.
2. What are your responsibilities within the Mexican Government?
Currently I am the President- General of Mexico. This means I am the supreme commander of the Army and the head of the Mexican government, a position I use to its fullest authority. With the embarrassment of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo my retention of this position remains unclear.
3. Who are your political allies/enemies?
My greatest ally is myself. I have currently come into power due to my military leadership, but in the past I have been a much reviled figure in Mexico for my strong political stances (and my changing to other strong political stances when necessary). Traditionally I am a champion of the centrists and conservatives though I was first elected president as a liberal.
4. Timeline
1810- At the beginning of our fight for independence I was young Creole officer and remained loyal to the Royalist forces
1817- I served under Arredondo crushing the worthless Texan rebels through what ever means necessary. I stand by the tactics used then and am proud I have replicated them in our more recent fight with the Texan secessionists, no action can be considered inhumane in dealing with a traitor to one’s country.
1821- I finally feel the confidence that comes with age to stand up for what you believe in and come to the aid of Agustín de Iturbide.
1822- Like many others I grew wary of the “Emperor’s” excessive ambition and supported the Plan of Casa Mata with Guadalupe Victoria (Jose Miguel Felix).
1823-1824 - I was one of the principal leaders in defeating Imperialist forces and creating the 1824 Constitution which lead to the Mexican Republic.
1824-1829- During the Presidency of Jose Miguel Felix I retired to a private life, until my country would need me again. It happened that they did in 1829 where I quickly organized an effective resistance to an invasion by Spanish forces and defeated them at Tampico.
1832- I began to have problems with the administration and using my considerable renown and fame was able to become President in 1833 (as a liberal).
1834- I decide Mexico is not yet ready for democracy and take the reigns of power more securely into my own hands. Some called this autocracy, ha.
1835- The Zacatecas liberals continually worked against me in my efforts to better the Republic and my call for them to reduce their militia so I was forced to defeat them militarily and institute what were called repressive tactics by my enemies. Yet my work was not yet done and I was forced to head toward Texas to suppress Sam Houston’s rebellion.
1836- My military campaign began to falter and I was captured by Houston and sent banished to Washington where I had the privilege of meeting General Jackson. In any case the fault was not my own but that of those who worked against me for political gains back in Mexico.
1838- My country calls me back into service to fight the Pastry War against an invading force of French.
1839- Bustamante declares me acting President, a decision made to please the public.
1841- I am overthrow Bustamante due to what I felt was the evident need and want of the public for new leadership. I take on the mantle of dictator to work more efficiently.
1844- I am captured in an underfunded and under supported attempt to suppress an Indian revolt and exiled to Cuba.
1845- America Annexes Texas. I convince the US I am that the Mexican leadership will be unreasonable and I must go to Mexico to provide logical clearheaded leadership. I convince the Mexican Government that I am the only man with the skill to defeat the US forces in combat and that I will not meddle with political affairs.
1846- I have returned to Mexico taken command of the Army and become President and am leading a campaign to stop the American aggression.
1847- We hold off the US forces in Buena Vista but I realize the government has not provided a way for Mexico to win against such a grand force as the US.
1848- I have lost the Mexican-American War, and return in disgrace to Mexico unsure of what to do.
5. The State of Mexico
Military: I believe I have created a fine military in Mexico that I can lead to victory but we are underfunded and no where near as modern as the US. Which is our greatest military threat, European invaders are mainly confined to sending smaller expeditionary forces due to the large distance of travel but the US with its relative proximity and goals of expansion is a long term threat to Mexico.
International: Since the Pastry War our standing international has been tarnished and we have been unjustly charged as debtors who don’t return on our debts. We have largely been ignored by the international community and it was not until recently that Spain even acknowledged our independence.
Economic: These problems bring me to our economy. The numerous wars both civil and of foreign aggression have left us in shambles. Our nation had relied on a complex infrastructure before independence to bridge our vast land filled with mountains, valleys, deserts and even rainforests. But this infrastructure has fallen into disarray either destroyed by war or lack of maintenance. The same can be said of our once great agricultural and mining industries. Destroyed or rundown during the wars we now lack the capital to rebuild these economic systems to a level that will adequately employee and feed our nation. With the very systems that fueled our economy broken and in disarray we have seen our domestic economy and our share of the international economy greatly dwindle and with it the rise of unemployment and underemployment, the abandoning of our cities, and the retreating of local communities to the primitive ways of substance farming where once they were interdependent traders. This collapse of domestic industry that relied on the productiveness of our agricultural strength domestically and our exports particularly of silver have doomed the whole economy. But there is hope if capital can be found to repair the infrastructure, rebuild the mining industry and from these two create the basic economic strength that feeds expansion. This shall be one of my goals.
Political: With such grim futures the people are easy to revolt and be swayed by the eager politician. As such our government has become filled with infighting and partisanship in a system that is “winner take all and loser lose all.” With such a system our problems have not been addressed and the chaos has been fueled even further. My goal is to step in and provide a firm guiding hand to increase stability in these troubled times.
6. What is your character’s opinion of Mexico’s relationship with the US?
The US is aggressive, far too many of its people and politicians see itself as a supreme entity in the hemisphere. To this end the US encouraged illegal immigration into Texas and eventually revolt in that state, so that it could expand its tradition of slavery into new lands and push its internal problems on others. Texas’s annexation was in clear defiance to our country and Polk’s bogus claim that the Rio Grande was Texas’s true southern border forced us into a war defending territory that was rightfully ours and never before contested even by the Texan rebels. I am humiliated to admit that I was unable to hold off US aggression and have left our country with the embarrassment of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, but I fear that the treaty and its reasonable (though not generous) accommodations to Mexico are the best we can hope for in our current situation.
7. How does your character view slavery?
Mexico has outlawed slavery since the late 1820’s I have no intention of going against that law. When the US uses Mexican territory to expand its slave base I am disgusted and appalled an in that context comes my greatest opposition to slavery.
8. Describe major forms of communication and transportation at this time internationally,
and relative to their level of use in Mexico.
Very, very slow. Our road systems are horrible and the first railroad (in Mexico) has only just begun to be built in 1842 with a projected time of completion being 30 years. The rest of the world has a leg up on railroads and most countries have significant inland waterways such as the USA’s Mississippi River which steam boats travel through fairly quickly and efficiently. Mexico on the other hand has no such inland rivers. Our lack of transportation and communication technology became increasingly evident in the Mexican-American War where the US relied on such tools as the telegraph to coordinate its military campaigns while we still had men carrying letters around on horse back. The US’s other great advantage was its advance transportation system that allowed it to pour in soldiers from all over the country while I had to assembly my army as I moved north and then pretty much had to fight with what I had with few reinforcements being brought in from the “far and wide”
9. Write a eulogy for Los Niños Héroes, include allusions to your loyalty to our country,
specifically el Presidente Antonio López de Santa Anna.
As the highest commanding officer of the Mexican forces during this war of US aggression I can take solace in few things. One of which is Los Niños Héroes. Juan de la Barrera, Juan Escutia, Francisco Márquez, Agustín Melgar, Fernando Montes de Oca and Vicente Suárez. Six young men, one only just 13, fought on defending Chapultepec Castle and Mexico City herself against the American Aggressors. These boys were all who remained of the troops I had sent to defend the Castle, the rest of whom had withdrawn under orders of their commanding officer. But these young boys had stayed knowing the importance of the mission I had assigned to hold the hill, defend the castle, protect the city, and save our country. I only wish I could have fought alongside these valiant young men though I have fought with many like them throughout my years of defending our country. I know I will remember their sacrifice for Mexico for the rest of my life as an inspiration of loyalty and courage.
Works Cited:
http://www.nndb.com/people/511/000097220/
http://www.spiritus-temporis.com/plan-de-casa-mata/
http://www.spiritus-temporis.com/guadalupe-victoria/
http://www.tshaonline.org/handbook/online/articles/SS/fsa29.html
Amazing Source: http://historicaltextarchive.com/sections.php?op=viewarticle&artid=159
http://historicaltextarchive.com/sections.php?op=listarticles&secid=33 (pretty much all the articles listed are good)
http://www.lib.utexas.edu/benson/Mex_Archives/Santa_Anna.html
http://www.mexonline.com/history-ninosheroes.htm
http://www.pbs.org/kera/usmexicanwar/war/communications.html
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Position Paper
1. Who is the character you are representing? — Describe his or her beliefs and role.
My name is Benito Pablo Juárez García (Benito Juárez). I am known for being Mexico’s first indigenous leader, but more importantly as one of the nation’s greatest and most beloved leaders of all time. My main political goals include liberal reforms. I will work to stabilize the Mexican economy, strengthen our infrastructure, and for educational reform. After being exiled for my beliefs by the evil Conservative party, I will return to Mexico and serve terms as president.
2. What are your responsibilities within the Mexican Government?
Throughout my lifetime I served in several positions of the Mexican Government. My responsibilities for my most notable position, president, include residing as head of the Mexican government and commander of the army. I hold it as my personal responsibility to fight for the rights of the people by extending their liberties and increasing the standard of living in Mexico. My great success has made me one of the most beloved presidents of all time.
3.Who are your political allies/enemies?
My political allies are all liberal reformists who work to create a better standard of living for Mexicans. My enemies are military oriented conservatives who attempt to unethically gain power and limit the rights of the people.
4. Create a timeline of major events since the 1810 declaration of independence from Spain considering which groups/events your character supported and opposed.
1831 – I choose to give up my career as a lawyer and begin my extensive political career
1838- The Pastry War begins, although because I have no interest in combat glory at this time I am not very involved.
1845 – The annexation of Texas into America. Although this provokes war, I am again not involved.
1853- I am exiled to New Orleans by the Conservative party for my liberal ideals and opposition to their power
1855 – I return from exile and secure a job as Minister of Justice
1858 – The War of Reform begins, and I take office as an interim president
1859- I issue the Reform Laws, which cover civil issues and the separation of Church and State
1861 – The Liberals regain Mexico City, and I am legally elected president under the Constitution. Unfortunately, being unable to pay our foreign debts, Spain, Great Britain, and France all send armies to Mexico. France attempts to instill power in Mexico (French Intervention in Mexico) with the help of the Conservative forces
1863- Mexico City is captured by the French invaders. Miximilian of Austria is placed in power and my government must retreat to Ciudad to continue our resistance
1863-67 – French power begins to fail due to lack of global recognition. America also aids our resistance in order to uphold their Monroe Doctrine
1867 – We triumph over the French invasion and take Mexico City back. I ensure that Maximilian is executed to set an example of the consequences of jeopardizing the liberties the Mexican people deserve.
1867-70 – I am again elected president; however, I still must deal with strong opposition to my ideals. During my presidency I manage to uphold my reformed Constitution (which included basic rights of expression, abolished slavery, and prevented corrupt legal actions), build up the Mexican infrastructure, reduce the power of the Church in politics, and reduce the power of the military. In 1870 I suffer a stroke.
1872 – I die of a heart attack. Until my last moments of life I work to the best of my ability for the Mexican people.
5. What does your character think of the current state of Mexican affairs? Specifically its economy, military, international standing, domestic tranquility, and government.
Government: There is nothing that I believe in more than the greatness of our current government. The liberal reforms we have worked hard to put into action have secured rights for the Mexican people. I believe it is our job to protect their freedoms, and prevent the corruption or power from adulterating this government. Our strong civil and educational reforms have increased the standard of living for all Mexican people, as does our strengthened infrastructure. With the separation of power held between the Church and State I believe that the Mexican government can finally function to its full capacity, in order to ensure the best work is being done for the people.
Economy: Although Mexico has had some trouble in the past, I believe my policies are aiding us in stabilizing our economy, one of my goals as president. Unfortunately, I inherited a bankrupt country due to the immense amount of money spent during wartime. Our debt to European nations does catch up to us, but only because they wanted a reason to seize the country. My government has worked hard to weaken the power of the Church, which held about 34% of the wealth of the nation at one time. By separating the power of the Church and State and reclaiming government wealth from the Church I have helped our economy significantly and set a precedent for the future. Much of our nation’s wealth is also created by our strong agricultural and mineral exports. The revenues the Mexican government receive from the exports will aid in paying off debt and stabilizing our economy. I am pleased with our progress and expect Mexico to flourish in future years.
International Standing: Our success in the French invasion cannot be ignored. It has strengthened the global opinion of our nation, and has confirmed the respect America has for South American nations (by upholding their Monroe Doctrine and coming to our aid when European powers threatened us).
Military: Our government has succeeded in weakening the power of military influence in the state. It has caused many bloody issues throughout the years, and by finally constricting special privileges the military used to have I have put an end to corruption in our government.
Domestic Tranquility – Unfortunately, my only disappointment lies with Mexico’s Domestic Tranquility. The constant irritation of the undermining resistance to the liberal ideals that the Mexican people overwhelmingly approve of has poisoned our victory for the common man. I find it difficult to trust many people in this day and age, and think it is very important that we continue to work with the necessities of Mexican people in mind.
6. What is your character’s opinion of Mexico’s relationship with the US? Include in the context of your answer the Mexican American War, Texas’s annexation and the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo.
I believe that good relations with the United States is in Mexico’s best interest. I am somewhat unattached to the event of the Mexican-American war, and believe that the merciful Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo. It is unfortunate that we have lost so much to the U.S., but Mexico needs to think of the future. The United States has shown its respect for South American nations in the Monroe Doctrine, which was a message to European nations to stay clear of our affairs. It even aided us during an invasion, upholding the promises made in the Doctrine. Our close proximity will always create a tie between our nations, and it is imperative that we work together in order to prosper, however strengthening our power and ability may be a necessary action in the future in order to prove ourselves to the United States.
7. How does your character view slavery?
Being known as the Abraham Lincoln of Mexico, I believe it is obvious that I am in opposition to slavery. During my presidency I outlaw slavery, and being an indigenous Mexican, fight against the mistreatment of Mexican Native Americans.
8. Describe major forms of communication and transportation at this time internationally, and relative to their level of use in Mexico.
I have substantially strengthened Mexican infrastructure during my time as president. Compared to the extremely slow transportation and communication system that was available before my time, we are doing quite well. Our government has continued building railroads, which are our main form of transportation within the country. Unfortunately, compared to other rapidly developing nations we are still behind (they have many more developed railways, canals, and new technological advancements that revolutionized communication), but the efforts of the current government have made significant strides in the right direction.
9. Write a eulogy for Los Niños Héroes.
Showing true devotion to your nation is the single most respectable thing a man can do. Evan as a man far removed from military events, I can respect the courage of the six young Los Niños Héroes. Juan de la Barrera, Juan Escutia, Francisco Márquez, Agustín Melgar, Fernando Montes de Oca and Vicente Suárez all deserve immense respect for their brave actions during the Battle of Chapultepec. Overwhelmed by United States forces, these six boys – all under the age of twenty – held their ground in the face of death to defend their country. It is imperative that all Mexicans learn from the undying loyalty these young men had for their country, and realize the preservation and advancement of Mexico is the most important thing for their people. Which is why I will always be committed to the good of the people (which in light of this event may suggest evasion of war) and the magnificent nation of Mexico.
Works Cited:
http://www.cachecoins.org/mexico.htm
http://www.geographia.com/mexico/mexicohistory.htm
http://www.bajainsider.com/baja-life/general-information/benitopablojuarezgarcia%20.htm
http://www.inoutstar.com/news/Benito-Pablo-Ju-rez-Garc-a-2532.html
http://historicaltextarchive.com/sections.php?op=viewarticle&artid=366
http://www.loc.gov/rr/hispanic/ghtreaty/
http://www.zermeno.com/Benito%20Juarez.html
http://www.mexonline.com/history-ninosheroes.htm
Danielle Stewart
Juan N. Alvarez Hurtado
Council Rock HS North
Mexico Bloc Position Paper
1. Who is the character you are representing? — Describe his or her beliefs and role.
My character is Juan N. Alvarez Hurtado. I am a member of the Mexican Liberal party. I strongly believe in federalism and am a hero of the liberty movement in Mexico. I am a republican.
2. What are your responsibilities within the Mexican Government?
Within the Mexican Government, I was an interim president from August to December of 1855. I have fought in all of the Mexican wars, including the Pastry War, the Mexican-American War, the War of Independence, and the War of Reform. I was a general and I helped with starting La Reforma in that I led a revolution in support of Benito Juarez's Plan de Ayutla in 1854.
3. Who are your political allies/enemies?
One of my main allies is Benito Juarez. I supported him when we worked to start La Reforma. My political enemies include the men of the Conservative party because I fought against their attempt to form a centralized government throughout Mexico. Santa Anna was a political ally, but now is another of my political enemies because he is a member of the Conservative party and he has worked so hard to centralize the government, while I have tried to counteract that.
4. Timeline
1810- I became a soldier in the guerrilla army of the priest José Maria Morelos y Pavón. We were fighting for Mexican independence from Spain. I quickly became Regiment of Guadalupe.
1821- I accepted Iturbide's Plan of Iguala and seized the port of Acapulco in October. I held that city until 1822, when I retired from the military.
1823- I joined Antonio López de Santa Anna and Vicente Guerrero in a revolt against Iturbide because we did not like the monarchy he had formed in Mexico.
1830 to1832- I served with Guerrero, who at this time was the Liberal president. After his death, I continued fighting against the conservatives.
Late 1830s- I served against the French invaders, and continued to influence the different southern Mexican states, including Guerrero, Michoacán, Morelos, and Oaxaca.
1840s- I fought against a man who I thought was my ally, Santa Anna. He is a member of the Conservatives. They were trying to centralize government in Mexico.
1847- I led a southern Mexican contingent against the North American invaders.
1848 to1850- I served as the first governor of Guerrero, which I helped found as a federal state.
1853- I helped keep much of Guerrero independent by putting up arms when Santa Anna and the Conservatives took power in Mexico.
1855- I joined Ignacio Comonfort in launching the Plan of Ayutla, which resulted in the overthrow of Santa Anna and a return to federal government and a new constitution.
August, 1855- The dictator fled, so I became interim president, with Benito Juárez as minister of justice. O had difficulty retaining power, so in December, I gave the presidency to Comonfort and returned home.
1857 to1860- I commanded the Liberal southern division against the Conservatives in the Three Year war.
5. The State of Mexico
Economy- With all of the civil, and foreign, fighting and warring, our economic situation is not well. Many of the regions on Mexico have been destroyed due to war. This will cost a lot of money, which the government does not have, to repair.
Military- While some see the Mexican military as great, I do not. It is not nearly as strong or powerful as the one from the United States. The military of Mexico is capable of being broken down by the different independent militaries I have put together, so it is clearly not that sturdy.
International Standing- Mexico is not seen very highly in the eyes of other countries throughout the world. It has taken a long time to be seen as independent from Spain, and Mexico has not established itself as a strong region yet.
Domestic tranquility- There is no tranquility in the country of Mexico. My goal has been to overthrow the unfair government that is in place by Santa Anna. This leads to wars and uproar in this region.
Government- The government that has been in place in Mexico is completely wrong. It should not be run by the Conservative party, but rather the liberal party. The men in charge, specifically Santa Anna, are not doing a good job of keeping their country under control.
6. What is your character’s opinion of Mexico’s relationship with the US?
The established relationship between Mexico and the United States could be stronger. When fighting in the Mexican American War, I was completely against the United States in that I wanted Mexico’s freedom for the liberalists. There has always been an issue with this relationship, especially when the region of Texas left Mexico and became a state in the United States of America. The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo was also not fair to my country in that Mexico was already was in control of this land from the War of Independence.
7. How does your character view slavery?
When I fought for the freedom of Mexico, I also fought for the freedom of the slaves, so I am against the use of them in the United States, or any other region.
8. Describe major forms of communication and transportation at this time internationally,
and relative to their level of use in Mexico.
Mexico has had hardly any advancement in the forms of communication and transportation compared to that of other countries, specifically the United States. During the war between us, I noticed how quickly they had armies shipped in to fight, while my country had difficulty mounting troops. This is due to the great road and transportation systems the United States has. Our roads are not set up strategically and we do not have any large transportation devices, like the railroad system in the United States.
9. Write a eulogy for Los Niños Héroes; include allusions to your loyalty to our country,
specifically el Presidente Antonio López de Santa Anna.
Los Niños Héroes should be commended for their hard work and dedication to this country. Juan de la Barrera, Juan Escutia, Francisco Márquez, Agustín Melgar, Fernando Montes de Oca, and Vicente Suárez were very brave in their attempt to hold back their invaders. While I do not agree with Santa Anna’s idea of putting cadets in the front line against a strong and skilled army, they did what they could to stop these attackers. I am proud of all their hard work and loyalty to the country of Mexico and all of its people.
http://galenet.galegroup.com/servlet/BioRC?vrsn=149&OP=contains&locID=crnorth&srchtp=name&ca=5&c=1&AI=U13682233&NA=Juan&ste=12&tbst=prp&tab=1&docNum=K1631000170&bConts=35
https://www.amazines.com/Juan_%C3%81lvarez_related.html
http://historicaltextarchive.com/sections.php?op=viewarticle&artid=159
http://www.mexonline.com/history-ninosheroes.htm
http://www.loc.gov/rr/hispanic/ghtreaty/
Position Paper
Xingyu Zhang
Ignacio Comonfort
Mexico Bloc
1.Who is the character you are representing? — Describe his or her beliefs and role.
I am Ignatio Comonfort, faithfully fighting under Antonio López de Santa Anna for several years under his command. However, it is due to Santa Anna's own ambition and greed that I later joined forces with Juan Alvarez to draft the Plan of Ayutla in opposition to this dictator. Do remember that I respect him with all my heart, but I believe that enough is enough, and 11 nonconsecutive terms as President is enough even for the most devoted Mexican to his country. I am most famous for my reign as President during the years of 1855 - 1858 and for establishing the Constitution of 1857 that later tore the nation into civil war. Some people see me as a horrible political leader but a genius when it comes to military. I am classified as a liberal, but I am a relatively weak liberal, willing to cooperate with conservatives in dire conditions.
2. What are your responsibilities within the Mexican Government?
I am first responsible for overthrowing Santa Anna and replacing the country with a liberal government. Later, after Juan Alvarez rose to the scene, I was placed as his minister of war, chiefly in charge of a new constitution. After the resignation of Juan Alvarez, I assumed the role of Presidency and established numerous liberal reforms. However, I became hugely unpopular after the Constituion of 1857, and I had to fight for my Presidency, switching sides to appease my political enemies as well as my allies (who had all become my enemies at this point). Finally, I could not withstand the opposition any longer and abided in 1858.
3. Who are your political allies/enemies?
I am a liberal. I am an ally with other liberal figures such as Juan Alvarez and Benito Juarez. I oppose Santa Anna and I oppose the numerous conservatives and rebels, most notably Félix Zuloaga. In addition, I hate the Catholic Church, I support the separation of church and state, even if that means my excommunication. However, ultimately my greatest ally is myself. I do not believe myself to be fixed to any political party and my self-interest fuels me to do things that are against my beliefs.
4. Timeline
1812- My birth at the city of Puebla on the tenth of March
1831- Fought under the honorable Santa Anna as an artillery captain against the dictator Anastasio Bustamante.
1833- Promoted to Artillery Captain of the National Guard and and infantry colonel in the militia.
1846-1848- Fought in the Mexican War against the Americans under my commander, Santa Anna.
1852- I was appointed administrator of Aduana Maritima of Mazatlán
1853-1855- My commander has declared himself dictator of Mexico! He is suppressing the rights of the civilians, sold numerous amounts of territory to the United States and demands that we must address him as Serene Highness! Enough is enough. I overthrow him and Juan Alvarez is President. I am made minister of war.
1855- I am now President of Mexico
1857- Chaotic years. I drafted the Constitution of 1857, was rebelled against by anti-constitutional forces, declare myself extraordinary powers, imprisoned Benito Juarez, and made into a puppet by Felix Zuloaga.
1858- I resigned Presidency and exiled myself to the United States in utter shame. My successor must finish my job for me.
5. What does your character think of the current state of Mexican affairs?
Economy- Our economy is nothing compared to our economy under Spain. Our government seems to know no other way than to borrow from other countries. By 1850, our foreign debt was 56 million pesos and our domestic debt was 62 million pesos. Our mining production, agricultural production, exports, and labor fell dramatically after our independence. Wars have left our country war-torn with many of our mining industries destroyed. In addition, with our secession from Spain, the mercury needed to process our abundant silver ore was gone because Spain was our chief supplier in mercury. What we need to do is to establish a firm government and seize the opportunity to exploit the resources that we have. We cannot rely on dictators like Santa Anna to continue using our country as a crutch and losing/selling all our land to the U.S.
Military- Our military is under supplied and poorly fed. There was hardly any food for the soldiers, forcing them to forage for food from neighboring counties as they passed. Soldiers fought without a full cartridge box, against the Americans who were much better supplied. Medical care hardly existed. When soldiers died, they were usually left on the ground to die unless their name was prominent. It is disgusting to me that while the soldiers lived like rats, the officers were filled with aristocrats basking in mounds of cash. It is important to point out that among those aristocrats was Santa Anna, simply viewing his soldiers as expendable tools to advance his own career. Although I have once respected him, I now believe that such a heartless man must not continue to adopt his philosophy onto the people of Mexico. I have experienced it many times when I was in the military and I use my judgment to do what I think is the best for the country.
International- Because of Mexico's weak military and economy, other countries take advantage of us. Spain did so in 1829, France did so in 1838, and the United States did so in 1847. We are bullied beyond imaginable and our international standing is very weak.
Government- The government is horribly unstable. Through 1837 to 1851, Mexico saw the rise of 26 presidents. Under these horrible conditions, the people look forward to a firm leader, and many look for hope towards Santa Anna, even though he has been declaring power for himself on and off 11 times. During those intermittent times with no political leader, the country sinks towards anarchy. People have even seceded, forming republics in Yucatan, Texas, and the Rio Grande. What our country needs is a stronger leader, a better government, and a reestablished constitution, even if this means there must be a coup.
6. What is your character's opinion of Mexico's relationship with the US?
I hate the United States for taking Mexico's land. However, I have also had enough of Santa Anna and I believe that I should go into any lengths to oust him from power. If I were torn between choosing U.S. aid or Santa Anna's dictatorship, I would rather accept help from my enemy than kiss the feet of an effeminate man who wants me to worship him as “Serene Ruler”.
7. How does your character view slavery?
I am fiercely opposed to all forms of slavery. I believe in the people and that the people must have fundamental rights that cannot be taken away. This includes slavery. When I became President, I reaffirmed the abolition of slavery, never to see it on the soil of Mexico again.
8. Describe major forms of communication and transportation at this time internationally.
Mexico lacks rivers, and Mexico lacks decent communications. River transport, which was plentiful in the United States, is virtually nonexistent in Mexico. Communications were carried through land, which was expensive and inconvenient due to the geography. Many roads in Mexico were destroyed by natural disasters and war. Therefore, even maintaining a network of roads costs high upkeep, something that Mexico cannot afford. Inter-regional trade was banned due to this problem.
9.Write a eulogy for Los Niños Héroes, include allusions to your loyalty to our country
Aah, I have never heard of such a fine deed from such fine young men, knowing only to serve the country the love the most. I take pride in these men, knowing that Mexico, in times of need, is still defended by fiercely brave men. These six men have shown courage indescribable to a common man, for the common man does not know courage. I will be reassured in my heart when I remember that Mexico has produced in history a “wall of men”, immovable and resilient to the last minute. The brave deeds of these men will long be remembered as an inspiration to all Mexicans, and a remembrance towards the cruel tactics of the north.
Sources (stole some sites from John. haha)
http://mexicanhistory.org/Ayutla.htm
http://www.globalsecurity.org/military/ops/mexican_war.htm
http://historicaltextarchive.com/sections.php?op=viewarticle&artid=338
http://historicaltextarchive.com/sections.php?op=viewarticle&artid=553
http://historicaltextarchive.com/sections.php?op=viewarticle&artid=448
http://translate.google.com/translate?hl=en&sl=es&u=http://www.elbalero.gob.mx/historia/html/gober/i_comonfort.html&sa=X&oi=translate&resnum=3&ct=result&prev=/search%3Fq%3Dignacio%2Bcomonfort%26hl%3Den%26sa%3DG
http://www.pbs.org/kera/usmexicanwar/war/army_life_mexican.html
http://www.mexonline.com/history-ninosheroes.htm
I'm pretty impressed by the papers you all have up. I only had time for a quick read right now but I'll get some more substantial comments up later. But one major thing: you want to make sure that you come into the scenario viewing everthing as your character would in 1848 because our 1860 at the end of the scenario won't be the historical 1860 making whatever your character did in 1860 unimportant. So its okay to get a brief brushing over of what your character did later on (since it helps you have an idea of who they were) but you want to focus on who they are and what they were doing right when the scenario starts following the disatourous Mexican-
American War.
But so far so good everyone. I want to see you all commenting on what one another have found and continue to do research. And I'm going to post some more specific comments later on.
Delegate: Daniel Garnica
Delegation: Trenton Central High School-West
Committee: Historical Simulation Committee
Felix Maria Zuloaga
Introduction
General Felix Maria Zuloaga was born in Alamos, Chihuahua in March 31st, 1803.Zuloaga was both a politician and a military man; he belonged to the liberal party during his early political career, but he later became a conservative. He would lead the conservative party in an effort to overthrow the government of Mexico in the mid 1850s.
Early Career
During his twenties he took his first step towards his leadership of Mexico. He entered the National Guard and the corps of engineers in the same year. He served during a very controversial time - - during the riots against the secessionist of Yucatan in 1842. He was promoted to lieutenant colonel for his outstanding job during the Yucatan riots. General Félix Zuloaga directed the construction of the defenses of Monterrey and Saltillo before the war against the United States. Zuloaga also played a very important part in the War from Texas against France and later in the campaign against the United States.
Zuloaga became strong as a military leader; he was well respected by the conservatives in Mexico and was regarded as a person with strong beliefs. He was said to look out for the people that were treated unfairly and in 1848, he retired. Zuloaga came out of retirement after he was recalled to active service. He then became a colonel and went south to fight in the revolution of Ayutla in 1854.
Overthrow of Constitution in 1857
Zuloaga was a friend of Ignacio Comonfort. Comonfort was a liberal moderate president of Mexico. Zuloaga played a big role in influencing Comonfort to declare that the Constitution of 1857 was not a good constitution and convincing Comonfort that the constitution was very radical.
Zuloaga had the support of many of the military and civilians in Mexico, and in 1859 he was appointed president; put in power by the reactionaries. In 1859 General Miguel Miramón replaced Zuloaga. In 1860, in order to get back into presidency Zuloaga wrote a manifesto. In 1861, Zuloaga was named to be president of the Republic once again.
Félix Zuloaga was considered a strong leader of "conservatives--especially ranking army officers, Church officials, aristocrats, and big landowners--who challenged the Constitution by supporting a revolt that became known as the War of Reform". General Zuloaga, with the support of the conservatives, denounced the constitution and called for a new constitution. This plan was called The Plan of Tacubaya.
Zuloaga and his men marched to the Congress and overthrew Congress. They placed the Head of Supreme Court of Mexico, Benito Juárez, an Indian, under arrest. Benito Juárez tried to take the outright leadership or presidency of Mexico, which was seen wrong to Zuloaga. Juárez was one of the main reasons that Zuloaga tried to overthrow the government of Mexico. After being placed under arrest, Juárez escaped to Guanajuato. Juárez tried to declare himself the president of Mexico since the Head of the Supreme Court was supposed to be next in line for the Presidency. Juarez had eleven states backing him as the new president. This caused Mexico to have two presidents and two governments. General Zuloaga was the head of the conservative government. Benito Juárez was the President of the liberals. "Mexico now had two presidents and the makings of a horrible civil war" (Suchlicki 85).
Zuloaga spent the next few months trying to make sure that he was the more legitimate leader of Mexico. He tried to get the United States to recognize him as the President of Mexico. He also tried to get the major countries in Europe, like France, Britain, and Prussia, to recognize the conservatives as the rightful rulers of Mexico. These European powers agreed with Zuloaga and the Conservatives, while the United States after holding out on making a decision said they felt Juárez and the liberals were the rightful rulers of Mexico.
The liberals set up their government in Veracruz with Juárez as their leader. They were able to receive military assistance from many different countries. The liberals had a much different view that Zuloaga and the conservatives of what Mexico's government should do. They wanted "complete separation of Church and state, secularization of all male religious orders, reduction of the number of officials religious holidays, suppression of all religious corporations, limitation of religious processions, and confiscation of Church property" (Suchlicki 85).
While this was going on with the liberals the conservatives were putting together an agenda of their own. Zuloaga pushed for Mexico to pledge alliance to the pope. "In Mexico City the Zuloaga administration declared the Reform Laws null and void, swore allegiance to the Holy See, took communion in public, and planned military campaigns" (Meyer 383). He also focused on winning the respect of the major powers of the world, like the United States and Europe. It was clear that Zuloaga and the conservatives had the support of the military. It also seemed clear the liberals may have had more of the support of the general population.
General Zuloaga was a very important actor in this revolution by the conservatives. His supporters rewarded his efforts with the appointment. Although he accepted the position, Zuloaga felt he was not cut out to be President. The liberals were able to gain outright control in the mid-1860s and Zuloaga was forced into exile to Cuba, since he was the leader of the conservatives. He was able to return to the country in 1873 where he gave up his life in politics and began a somewhat successful tobacco business. Zuloaga later died on February the 11th in 1898 in Mexico City at the age of 95.
Bibliography,
http://usuarios.lycos.es/aime/fzuloaga.html
Krauze, Enrique, (1997) Mexico Biography of Power, Harper Collins Publishers.
Suchlicki, Jaime, (2001) Mexico—From Montezuma to the Fall of the PRI, (2nd ed.) Brassey's Washington, D.C.
Meyer, Michael C, (1987) The Course of Mexican History, Oxford University Press.
Hopefully you will have the patience to scroll all the way down here. But here is the prompt:
What should we do to improve Mexico's economy?
I'd like each of you to have two solid ideas on economic improvements we need to make, and why they would help.
Oh and Jason is doing some Mexico bashing in his latest post ("Go West...") so feel free to join the arguement.
I say it is essential for Mexico to establish a banking system, in order to take loans to rebuild our nation. Without a bank, it is impossibly to get our country back on track.
Perhaps also run government building projects to reduce unemployment and improve our roads and fix our mines. We can pay the people with loans established from our new bank. With fixed roads and mines, the economy can be restored to its former status under Spain.
It is necessary for our country to go even further in debt in order to get our country out of debt. If we do not go into debt even more, our economy will continue to spiral down to nothing.
Actually, I have a quick question:
Do we still have California and those states? I think in the post "Go West", Seward talked about forcing the Mexicans to give the United States the land. It sounds as if we still control the land, but I was under the impression that we lost it during the Mexican-American War.
If we do control it, we can surely mine it. Even if we cannot, it will be profitable to sell it to Great Britain and create a formidable foe to the United States. If Great Britain controls the lands west of the United States, then U.S.'s "Manifest Destiny" will surely fail.
I like that Xingyu playing Great Britian and the US against each other. And as for if we have the land we will be conducting the Treaty on Thursday with the US and Great Britian bloc leaders and hopefully we'll keep some land but I doubt it. I'm hoping at the very least we'll get a load of cash out of it so as to start some infrastructure projects. Oh and if we don't mine in California we still have a lot of silver to mine in Mexico (the mines just have been destroyed by civil war) so we should use those as well. Keep positng everyone.
Oh here is an interesting idea I found. The Catholic Church use to run this collective sort of thing (I can't remember the spanish word right now but I'll find it later) anyway it would give tools and small loans to local farmers and they would all come to market at the church where they got their tools so that there was a central place to trade. But it was shut down when the liberals first got in power because it gave to much power to the church.
I'd be intrested to know what you all think about that and I'll definately bring it up in Confrence so do some research on it.
Also you all need to tell me what you want from the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo since I'll be negotiating it before you get there
College staff has apparently been hinting at the fact that fact that due to the Irish patoto famine there will be big issues with Irish immigration. This will effect us to because we actually did have a sizable Irish immigrant population (they had their own brigade the Mexican American War). So two things 1) check if your character had any nativist bias and 2) try to think up ways we can play taking in the Irish to our advantage with the English
John, when you say you will be negotiating the treaty Thursday, do you mean tomorrow?
Try to keep some land for us, such as New Mexico, Nevada, and other border states. If it's possible, give some land to the British. I don't know what else we can squeeze out of the treaty. Just cash, get a lot if possible, at least $15 million (which was the historical amount). Also try to cancel our debt with the U.S.
I doubt any of us would support the Catholic Church or your plan, especially if we're staunch liberals like Juarez. However, remember that I'm a moderate. I can support you if you give me something I desire, such as political power. That wouldn't be stepping out of character too much would it?
As for the Irish, maybe give them support (monetary and property) if they come?
Xingyu you forget that I to am a moderate. Infact I was first elected by liberal factions in Mexico and only when they became too revolutionary did I feel it neccesary to start being a "conservative." Anyway I'm going to see if I can find a more palitable way to present the Church idea and as for political power, well we'll see. Oh and as for stepping out of character I think your guy changed from liberal to conservative so as to gain the presidency once so I don't think it would be too out of character.
Oh and for the treaty I will be negotiating next thursday which is the day immediately before confrence starts. That way the Senate will have something to work with soon as confrence starts and (I think this is Jason's plan) either myself or the White house (or both) can be villified for not making a treaty that helps their side enough. Either way I'm going to try to keep as much territory and take as much money as we can. At the very least I won't do worse than the historical treaty.
As for the Irish we actually have quite a few here already... I don't know what we'll do but I really want to try to get money/railroads/political/anything I can from England so I plan on using that as part of it.
John, just realized something.
The simulation begins at 1848, but you're not in power yet. Your last rule ended at 1847. This person's president of Mexico:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Manuel_de_la_Pe%C3%B1a_y_Pe%C3%B1a
Poor Santa Anna. This was the guy who actually ratified the treaty, not you.
yeah I think I was being held captive by the US army in Mexico City at the time. But yeah I think we have to deal with a few historical inaccuracies for example they have Franklin Pierce as the President even though he isn't elected till 1852 and would actually be part of the Army invading Mexico at the time
Concerning the economy:
I believe a national bank that can support a common paper currency is imperative. The best thing we can direct our effort towards is stimulating our market in any way possible. Incentives for increased manufacturing, agriculture, mining....anything that we can export to bring money into the country. The bank is necessary for loans etc. (as Comonfort has already stated). Along with exporting comes Mexico's immediate need for a stronger infrastructure. We obviously don't have the money to do a complete overhaul, but strategically placed trains can really help us out.
I also think that reducing our own foreign dependency (concerning imports) could greatly help the Mexican economy. It will also stimulate local production of industrialized products.
We need to think about getting new money into the country. ASAP
Okay I think we have good ideas about the economy. So just so we have something to talk about heading into confrence. Should we intentionally provoke disunity in the US, to weaken them and by extension strengthen Mexico?
That would be nice, but how do you do that? Spread propoganda?
anything that gets them at eachothers throats. Well have to come up with stuff at confrence, but agitating the slavery question always helps. And I would like to set us up as a cotton grower in opposition to the South, maybe offer England some non-slave cotton and see what that does
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