Every country is different and there are certain characteristics that make it particular with respect to others. At the same time, all share similar issues and problems, some of which are of particular relevance for the specific country. This chapter examines four topics that make Mexico “unique”. They are issues that are particular to Mexico and that, in spite of being present in other nations, are of particular relevance in Mexico’s twenty-first century. Those issues are (1) the proximity of the United States; (2) the war on drugs and organized crime; (3) corruption; and (4) the disenchantment with politics. The chapter concludes with a brief discussion of Mexico’s place in the world.

MEXICO’S NEIGHBOUR

Mexico and the USA are two countries so closely linked to each other that it is almost mandatory to talk about both. Being geographical neighbours, Mexico and the US have had a very close relationship since the birth of both nations. Like all neighbouring countries, they have had their differences and some military confrontations. However, both have come to form, along with Canada, the world’s most important economic area in modern times.

In 1848, the United States and Mexico signed the Treaty Guadalupe Hidalgo to end the war between the two nations and begin a new peaceful relationship. The peace treaty would benefit both sides of the Rio Grande. The American dream became part of Mexican and Latin American societies. Life on the border generated new cultures, but not everything has been easy. This section will show how the historical relationship between both nations has developed since1848 to the present, and the economic and political implications for Mexico.

The current border between the United States and Mexico is approximately 3,185 km long, but this was not always the case. In 1848, with the dissolution of the war and the signing of the treaty, Mexico granted more than half of its territory to the United States and would have no claim on Texas. In return, it would receive $15 million for damage to Mexican territory.