School of War
Ep 192: Raymond Jonas on Europe’s War on the Monroe Doctrine (~165 years ago)
Apr 25, 2025
Raymond Jonas, Jon Bridgman Endowed Professor in History, delves into the dramatic 19th-century European attempts to undermine the Monroe Doctrine. He uncovers the complexities of transatlantic relations during the American Civil War, the ambitions of Napoleon III, and Maximilian I's intriguing yet doomed reign in Mexico. The conversation highlights how European powers aimed to alter the political landscape and the resilience of Mexican forces. Jonas also reflects on the unexpected implications for American sovereignty and modernization in the wake of these initiatives.
48:20
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Quick takeaways
- The Second Mexican Empire's attempt by European powers illustrates the complex interrelationship between imperial ambitions and national sovereignty during the 19th century.
- Maximilian's rise and fall in Mexico symbolizes the resistance against foreign domination and the evolving national identity that continues to influence modern geopolitics.
Deep dives
European Intervention in Mexico
The Second Mexican Empire arose from the intervention of European powers, particularly France, during a vulnerable period for Mexico that coincided with the American Civil War. This event illustrated the geopolitical dynamics at play, with European monarchies viewing the American Republic as a threat to their imperial interests. Despite the eventual failure of this empire, the ideological undercurrents of conservatism and imperialism reflected deep-rooted beliefs about governance and power that resonate in contemporary Western Hemisphere politics. Understanding this historical episode is crucial for grasping the complexities of modern international relations between the Americas and Europe.
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