War on the Border: Villa, Pershing, the Texas Rangers, and an American Invasion

In 1916, the United States faced war on two fronts. President Woodrow Wilson wanted to remain neutral in the conflagration across the Atlantic despite Allied entreaties to join forces. A war of closer proximity loomed in Mexico. A civil war had enveloped Mexico, pitting President Venustiano Carranza against charismatic military leader Pancho Villa. The United States had been involved indirectly in Mexican affairs over the previous seventy years, as manifest destiny led to the expansion of territory for the developing country. With progress, came tensions with Mexico.

The country of Mexico had struggled with growing pains since its independence from Spain. Real leadership was lacking. Dozens of heads of state had passed through parliament during the last century. The United States had an interest in stable leadership due to having invested in the country. There was soon an expeditionary force led by General John Pershing to capture Villa.

War on the Border is a thrilling narrative about a dangerous period in Mexican-American relations. Author Jeff Guinn reinvigorates the past with his dual portrayal of the two warring countries, whether on the battlefield or in the Oval Office. It is an invaluable read for those seeking to understand the fraught relations between the United States and Mexico.