The Porfiriato
Richard Gaines
Navarro HIST 4190
7/22/10
Response Question #4
The era of the Porfiriato, under rule of Porfirio Diaz, saw a huge shift in the industrialization and modernization of Mexico. The world-view of Mexico and its financial foundations had changed considerably for the better, but this change would come at a high price. The short history of the country and its political pitfalls would prove, yet again, that history does repeat itself. After much reading and consideration, I believe that the Mexican Revolution was inevitable. In the beginning, Diaz had everything going in his favor. On paper, he looked as though he had been breed for the job. He came from a decent family, was educated, and “fought under the liberal banner during the War of Reform.” His quick rise through the military ranks and his involvement in multiple revolts would bolster his future political career. His greatest accomplishments in these early years would be tightening relations with western Europe, Latin America and the US, as well as maintaining a new sense of order across his country with the use of the rurales. The latter would be foreshadowing to his downfall. After his term was over he respectfully honored the no re-election law and handed over the Presidency to Manuel Gonzales. Gonzales would lay the groundwork for Diaz in respect to the beginnings of railroad construction and also acquisition of land through legal changes. The new Presidency under Diaz had a bright future. Economic growth boomed as Mexico was ushered into the modern age. New use of water, electric, and steam power assisted the country in building a much needed drainage system and also a wave of public building. Every time a new project was completed, it was dedicated to foreign diplomats and the like in elaborate ceremonies. This, in turn, helped change to world-view of Mexico for the better. Over time, Mexico saw a revival of mining, oil, and other exports with transportation of goods along an
Navarro HIST 4190
7/22/10
Response Question #4
The era of the Porfiriato, under rule of Porfirio Diaz, saw a huge shift in the industrialization and modernization of Mexico. The world-view of Mexico and its financial foundations had changed considerably for the better, but this change would come at a high price. The short history of the country and its political pitfalls would prove, yet again, that history does repeat itself. After much reading and consideration, I believe that the Mexican Revolution was inevitable. In the beginning, Diaz had everything going in his favor. On paper, he looked as though he had been breed for the job. He came from a decent family, was educated, and “fought under the liberal banner during the War of Reform.” His quick rise through the military ranks and his involvement in multiple revolts would bolster his future political career. His greatest accomplishments in these early years would be tightening relations with western Europe, Latin America and the US, as well as maintaining a new sense of order across his country with the use of the rurales. The latter would be foreshadowing to his downfall. After his term was over he respectfully honored the no re-election law and handed over the Presidency to Manuel Gonzales. Gonzales would lay the groundwork for Diaz in respect to the beginnings of railroad construction and also acquisition of land through legal changes. The new Presidency under Diaz had a bright future. Economic growth boomed as Mexico was ushered into the modern age. New use of water, electric, and steam power assisted the country in building a much needed drainage system and also a wave of public building. Every time a new project was completed, it was dedicated to foreign diplomats and the like in elaborate ceremonies. This, in turn, helped change to world-view of Mexico for the better. Over time, Mexico saw a revival of mining, oil, and other exports with transportation of goods along an