The United States' Policy Towards Mexico (1933–1944)

Abstract

Mexico's strategic geographic location in North America has been a defining factor in its history. It borders a variety of seas and waterways, including the Gulf of Mexico, the Caribbean Sea, the Gulf of California, and the Pacific Ocean.  Its diverse topography and varied climatic regions further enrich its landscape.  Add to this its abundant natural resources, most notably oil, gold, and silver, and it would appear that Mexico possesses the potential for great development. However, despite its rich history and its close ties to the United States, Mexico has not achieved full economic development since its independence in 1821.  While there are abundant writings about Mexico in the United States, the Arab world lacks comprehensive studies on its history.  Much of what is mentioned about Mexico in Arabic and Arabized literature consists of brief, superficial accounts that fail to cover its historical events or geographical details.  Academic conferences and published articles in academic journals have focused less on Mexico than on countries like Brazil, Argentina, Chile, or Peru, especially in historical studies.  This fact prompted the researcher to focus on a specific period in Mexican history, given its significance as an oil producer for the United States, and its geographical connection through a long border with the United States.  The chosen timeframe allows for a deeper understanding of the foreign policy implemented by Cordell Hull, the longest-serving U.S. Secretary of State (1933-1945). The period extends from 1939, the beginning of World War Two, through 1944, when Hull resigned due to ill health.  This era was marked by the elevation of diplomatic representation between the United States and Mexico to the level of embassies, and the signing of agreements between the two nations.