Crisis and Legitimacy: The Role of the Mexican Military in Politics and Society

摘要

This study first examines the military's historical roots in Mexico from its pre-Columbian heritage to the present. The intent of the historical analysis is to search for causes and insights that provide continuity of character within the Mexican military as an institution and to evaluate the degree to which the military responds to crisis in Mexican society. The suggested thesis that the military plays a key political role by serving to restore equilibrium when the regime's legitimacy is challenged, either externally or internally. The model offered for understanding the military's role in politics and society in Mexico. In the process of developing civil supremacy, the armed forces assumed a subservient role within the regime, rather than apart from it as an independent, professionalized military. The political role of the military was defused, not defeated, and has resurfaced during crisis events that threaten the regime's hegemony. This dissertation focuses on events since 1982 and the current regime crisis. The military's role and responses to contemporary political and economic challenges are evaluated against the Armed Party model, suggesting that the model is still a valid method for understanding Mexico's record of civil supremacy over the military during the last 60 years. Keywords: Mexican government; Foreign military forces; National security drugs/immigration; Political science; Election fraud; Low intensity conflict. (EDC)