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2. History 128C H A P T E R IThe history of Mexico can be examined according to the political model that has beenfollowed through the centuries. What follows is a summary of the principal characteristicsof the evolution of the Mexican nation, with an emphasis on public policy.In the pre-Hispanic period, particularly during the time of the dominance of theAztec nation (1325–1525), power was exercised by an absolute monarch, consideredto be a representative of the gods, who had power over the earth. He was distributorand giver of the land and demanded tributes from neighboring and distant tribes underhis power and engaged constantly in wars. While the Habsburgs ruled in Spain, Mexicowas conquered by the Spaniards and the Viceroyalty of New Spain was established. Aform of absolute monarchy was established in New Spain that was based in theory onprinciples of Christian morality, including an obligation to uphold justice for the people.In the economic sphere, restrictions were imposed, privileges and monopolies weregranted, and taxes were levied by the Crown. Meanwhile, legal inequality was established.Justice was administered by numerous special courts, who reinforced the privilegesand exceptions from which certain individuals and groups benefited.Upon the arrival of a new reigning dynasty in Spain, that of the Bourbons (1700–1808),the principles underpinning the monarchy changed to those of enlightened despotism.The new rulers’ alleged ideal was to bring happiness to the people. The Crown establishedits first monopolies and cartels, establishing a mixed economy and strengtheningthe tax system. Racial and economic discrimination broadened. These and other authoritarianmeasures, known as the “Bourbon Reforms,” hurt the Mexican population andwere the cause of conspiracies aimed at gaining independence, further fueled in the endby France’s invasion of Spain under Napoleon I and the imprisonment of Kings CarlosIV and Fernando VII.The Mexican insurgents who fought for independence (1810–1821) imagined asemi-liberal, utopian nation, based on private enterprise, the abolition of excessivetaxes, the establishment of equality, a commitment to justice for all, good government,good laws, and rights for the poor. During the years 1822–1854, the rule of ambitiouscaudillos (local chieftains) and of political parties seeking power, as well as a state ofanarchy resulting from insurrections, military revolts, and shifts of power, preventedthe achievement of these worthwhile goals. During this period, liberals and conservativesstruggled to build a country modeled after their ideals. In addition, Mexico’sdefeat in the 1846–1848 war with the United States resulted in the loss of half of itsterritory.__________1We want to acknowledge and warmly thank José Manuel Villalpando, a renowned Mexican historian, forhis contribution to this section.