Line in the Sand
by Rachel St. John
"A History of the Western U.S.-Mexico Border"
Popularity
4.57 / 5
* A book's popularity is determined by how it compares to all other books on this website.
Where to buy?
Buy from Amazon* If you buy this book through the link above, we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Line in the Sand by Rachel St. John
Details
Biography:
No
Region:
North America
Page Count:
297
Published Date:
2011
ISBN13:
9781400838639
Description
Brief Summary
Line in the Sand by Rachel St. John presents a comprehensive transnational history of the U.S.-Mexico border. The book tracks the evolution of the boundary from the end of the Mexican-American War in 1848 up to the early 20th century, demonstrating how it transformed from a simple line on a map into the heavily monitored and symbolic boundary it is today. The narrative focuses primarily on the western desert border beyond the Rio Grande, illustrating the interplay of various forces such as government officials, Native American tribes, ranchers, railroad developers, immigrants, and smugglers who played pivotal roles in shaping the border's regulations and physical infrastructure.
Main Themes and Topics
Rachel St. John's work delves into themes such as the expansion of capitalism, state power, and regulation at the United States-Mexico border. The narrative explores both macro and microhistorical perspectives, examining local, regional, and national dynamics that influenced the development of the border. Central to the book is the idea that the border, rather than being impermeable, acted as a flexible yet significant barrier, affecting the movement of people, goods, and animals. This flexibility underscores a broader theme of state power and its limits, revealing how various stakeholders actively negotiated and at times subverted official regulatory systems to suit their interests.
Writing Style and Tone
St. John's writing is both scholarly and accessible, weaving together a detailed analysis with engaging narrative elements. Her use of primary research from U.S. and Mexican archives supports a well-structured argument, making the book informative for both academic audiences and general readers interested in border history. The tone is analytical yet balanced, providing a nuanced perspective that acknowledges the complexity of border dynamics.
Conclusion
Line in the Sand stands out as a significant contribution to border studies and historical scholarship, offering a vivid portrayal of how a seemingly arbitrary boundary evolved to become a crucial site of national and economic interests. Rachel St. John's meticulous research and thought-provoking themes make it an essential read for understanding the historical underpinnings of contemporary border issues.
