The Complexities of Reparations and Territorial Claims: An Analysis of U.S. and Mexico's Historical Interactions

Why has America neither made reparations to Mexico nor returned the land it grabbed militarily from Mexico? This question delves into the complex historical and geopolitical realities between these two countries. The history of land theft and the subsequent controversies surrounding territorial claims provide a deeper look into the reasons behind these actions and their impacts on both nations.

The History of Land Theft and Territorial Claims

America, like Mexico, is a settler colonial state built on stolen land. The United States stole from Mexico, much like Mexico stole from indigenous peoples. Both were driven by a desire to expand their territories and assert dominance over weaker adversaries. The US stole land in the mid-19th century, including parts of Texas, California, Nevada, and parts of New Mexico and Arizona, which were made into territories known as the Mexican Cession.

The Gadsden Purchase and Legal Land Transfers

The Gadsden Purchase in 1853 was a legal land transfer between the United States and Mexico, involving the purchase of land from a Mexican breakaway state. This purchase was made to facilitate a southern railroad route and add strategic territory for the US. This land inclusion became part of the modern-day states of New Mexico and Arizona, and parts of California, Nevada, Oregon, and Washington.

The Question of Indigenous Lands and Modern Citizenship

The idea of returning territories to Mexico today is complex. Firstly, the lands originally stolen by the US mostly included areas that were sparsely populated by indigenous Mexicans. Furthermore, most of the modern Mexican population did not live in these areas when the lands were ceded. For instance, much of the Mexican population didn't live in the areas covered by the Gadsden Purchase or the Cession. It is important to recognize that the borders of Mexico as we know them today were shaped by various geopolitical changes, including the Mexican-American War and the French intervention in Mexico.

Current Economic Relations and Reparations

The argument that the US should make reparations is often based on the idea of economic compensation for lost land. However, this perspective is problematic. For one, many Mexican citizens who crossed the border illegally became US citizens after the land was transferred. Additionally, the areas ceded to the US have seen significant development over the last 150 years, which has made them more valuable today. These areas have seen extensive economic development, including trade, tourism, and remittances.

The Value of Current Relations

The value that the US has provided to Mexico through economic means is substantial. The US is Mexico’s largest trading partner, providing more than 70% of its exports and hosting 75% of its tourism. The remittances sent from the US to Mexico stand at a staggering $25 billion annually, which is more than 2% of Mexico’s GDP. Furthermore, the US continues to provide foreign aid to Mexico, with annual contributions often exceeding $2 billion.

Historical Context and Modern Perspectives

Most Mexican leaders have not sought reparations because they recognize the value of their current relationship with the US. They understand that despite any historical grievances, the economic benefits of these exchanges are far more significant. For example, while some Mexican leaders have criticized the US on issues like immigration and trade, they have not pushed for reparations due to the importance of these economic ties.

This analysis underscores the complexities of historical grievances in the modern context. While historical land theft and territorial claims are significant, the current economic and diplomatic landscape provides a more nuanced perspective. The question of reparations and territorial claims must be considered within the broader context of these historical interactions and modern economic realities.

Conclusion

The historical theft of land and the subsequent territorial claims between the US and Mexico are profound and complex. The current value of economic ties and the vast economic contributions of the US to Mexico make any notion of reparations challenging to address. This article aims to provide a deeper understanding of the complexities involved, offering insights into why reparations or land returns are not straightforward solutions to these historical issues.