Empire and Revolution

Main Themes and Topics

Empire and Revolution by John Mason Hart offers a detailed exploration of the longstanding relationship between the United States and Mexico. The central theme of the book revolves around the complex interplay of economic and social connections between the two nations. Hart delves into how moments like the Mexican Revolution, Manifest Destiny, World War II, and NAFTA contribute to a broader understanding of how the United States emerged as a global empire. Beyond these pivotal historical moments, Hart investigates the underlying themes of wealth, power, and the American elites' relentless pursuit of dominance.

One crucial topic is the impact of American intervention and investment in Mexico, particularly how American financiers and industrialists shaped Mexico's infrastructure and economy. Through this lens, Hart examines the flow of industrial production in Mexico designed for export to the United States, and how this relationship has affected various sectors such as the railroad, oil, mining, and banking industries.

Another significant focus of the book is the transmission of the "American Dream" to Mexico, influencing aspects like religion and work attitudes. Hart raises crucial questions about the American psyche, particularly the inclination of elites toward wealth, power, and intervention in other nations under the guise of 'saving' them. In doing so, he reveals how these dynamics played out first in Mexico and later as a model for U.S. expansion worldwide.

Writing Style and Tone

John Mason Hart employs a narrative style that is both analytical and vivid. The prose blends economic and historical analysis with personal memoirs and detailed descriptions of key historical figures and events. Hart's writing is backed by significant research, including newly declassified documents and firsthand sources from rural Mexico. This combination of thorough documentation and engaging storytelling allows readers to grasp the intricate web of U.S.-Mexico relations with clarity and depth.

Brief Summary (no spoilers)

Empire and Revolution charts the interactions between the United States and Mexico from just after the American Civil War to the present day. The narrative focuses on an elite group of Americans who sought to capitalize on opportunities in Mexico, particularly during the regime of Porfirio Díaz and the Mexican Revolution, resulting in a shift of economic power and resource ownership. Hart provides insight into the often hidden interactions that have defined industrial and economic policies in both nations, offering a comprehensive view of how these interactions have shaped global perceptions and policies related to American expansion. Through his examination, Hart seeks to illuminate the often subtle but profoundly significant impacts of American involvement in Mexico and beyond.