The Indestructible Bond of Blood: Foreign Perceptions, Caricatures, and Visual Culture in the Mexican Press, 1898-1921

Abstract

This paper explores how the Mexican press depicted foreigners between 1898 and 1921. By examining Mexican periodicals during the period preceding the nation’s post-revolutionary consolidation, I posit the notion that discursive changes in the depictions and valorization of foreigners paved the way for the nationalist cultural project of the 1920s and 30s. That is particularly true about the representations of Spain and the United States. A disenchantment with American ideals occurred just as an orthodox vision of Mexican liberalism entered decline. Conversely, Spain’s re-appreciation of Spain’s role as a “mother country” became more visible in the Mexican press in the first quarter of the 20th century. Ultimately, these attitudes dominated the press as the country embarked in a nationalist vision of state building.