American History Hit – Episode: Frenemies: Mexico & the USA, a History

Release Date: June 2, 2025

In this compelling episode of American History Hit, host Don Wildman delves deep into the intricate and often tumultuous relationship between the United States and Mexico. Featuring insights from Professor Renata Keller of the University of Nevada, Reno, the discussion traverses centuries of shared history, highlighting key events, policies, and cultural exchanges that have shaped the bond between these neighboring nations.

1. Early Foundations of US-Mexico Relations

Don Wildman opens the conversation by setting the stage for the United States and Mexico's historical interactions, emphasizing the fluidity of their borders in the 19th century. He notes, “[...] our borders were very fluid throughout the 19th century” (03:53).

Renata Keller elaborates on the expansive nature of New Spain, highlighting that its territories were significantly larger than the original 13 US colonies. This historical backdrop is crucial for understanding the subsequent territorial disputes and expansions.

2. The Louisiana Purchase and Territorial Expansion

The discussion moves to pivotal moments such as the Louisiana Purchase of 1803, which positioned the US and Mexico as neighbors. Wildman points out, “The Louisiana Purchase, 1803, keeps that in mind” (03:36), underscoring its significance in shaping future relations.

Keller adds that this acquisition not only expanded US territory but also set the stage for future negotiations and conflicts over land, particularly in regions like Texas, California, and Arizona.

3. Texas Independence and the Road to War

A significant portion of the episode focuses on the Texas Revolution (1835-1836). Wildman recounts the events leading to Texas declaring independence, including the infamous Battle of the Alamo. He remarks, “The Alamo had been a mission [...] [that] was a famous loss” (11:15).

Keller discusses the underlying causes, such as the settlers' reluctance to integrate into Mexican society and their desire to maintain the slave system, which was outlawed in Mexico but prevalent in the US South. This clash of cultural and economic interests ultimately fueled the push for Texan independence.

4. The Mexican-American War and Its Aftermath

The conversation seamlessly transitions to the Mexican-American War (1846-1848). Wildman connects the Texas issue to the broader conflict, stating, “They [the conflicts in Texas] are very closely related” (13:07). He highlights the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, which resulted in the US acquiring over half of Mexico's territory for $15 million—a transaction that profoundly impacted Mexico's national psyche and territorial integrity.

Keller emphasizes the devastating effects on Mexico, noting, “This was devastating for Mexico to lose” (15:50). She explains how the loss exacerbated Mexico’s internal struggles, leading to political instability and paving the way for future conflicts and reforms.

5. Migration Patterns and Border Dynamics

Wildman and Keller explore the evolution of migration between the two countries. They contrast the early circular migration—where workers moved back and forth seasonally—with the more permanent migration patterns that emerged due to stricter border controls.

Keller explains, “Before you tighten the border, people can migrate more circularly” (25:52), highlighting how modern policies have transformed longstanding migration practices, leading to sustained populations in the US and persistent tensions over undocumented immigration.

6. Economic Interdependence and NAFTA

The episode delves into the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) of 1994, with Keller outlining its impact on trade and labor. She notes, “NAFTA did significantly increase trade across the three nations” (37:34), while also acknowledging the environmental and social repercussions that followed.

Wildman reflects on the mixed outcomes of NAFTA, mentioning the loss of manufacturing jobs in the US but also recognizing the creation of jobs in Mexico’s manufacturing and agriculture sectors. This economic interdependence underscores the complexity of US-Mexico relations, where collaboration and competition coexist.

7. The War on Drugs and Its Consequences

A critical segment of the discussion addresses the War on Drugs, initiated by President Richard Nixon and intensified under subsequent administrations. Wildman connects this to the rise of powerful Mexican cartels and the ensuing violence.

Keller provides a nuanced view, stating, “The main drug traffickers [...] were in the government” (40:50). She explains how government corruption and competition among cartels led to escalating violence, which in turn fueled further migration and strained bilateral relations.

8. Modern-Day US-Mexico Relations

In the final segments, Wildman and Keller examine the current state of US-Mexico relations. They discuss the shifting narratives, from viewing Mexico as a partner to perceiving it as an adversary in the context of immigration and drug trafficking.

Keller expresses concern over the antagonistic stance, asserting, “This attitude [...] is completely unproductive” (45:19). She advocates for renewed cooperation and mutual respect, drawing parallels to the successful Good Neighbor Policy of the early 20th century.

Wildman concludes by emphasizing the need for cultural exchange and firsthand experience to bridge misunderstandings, encouraging listeners to “take one trip to Mexico” to appreciate its rich heritage and the shared history that binds the two nations.

Conclusion

This episode of American History Hit offers a comprehensive exploration of the multifaceted relationship between the United States and Mexico. Through historical analysis and expert insights, Don Wildman and Professor Renata Keller illuminate the forces that have shaped their interactions—from territorial disputes and economic agreements to migration and contemporary political challenges. The conversation underscores the importance of understanding this complex history to navigate and improve current and future relations between these neighboring countries.

Notable Quotes:

• Don Wildman: “The Louisiana Purchase, 1803, keeps that in mind” (03:36)

• Renata Keller: “This was devastating for Mexico to lose” (15:50)

• Don Wildman: “They [the conflicts in Texas] are very closely related” (13:07)

• Renata Keller: “Before you tighten the border, people can migrate more circularly” (25:52)

• Don Wildman: “This attitude [...] is completely unproductive” (45:19)

About the Guest:

Dr. Renata Keller is an associate professor at the University of Nevada, Reno, specializing in Latin American relations with the United States. Her latest work, Fate of the Americas, provides an in-depth analysis of the historical and contemporary dynamics between the US and its southern neighbor. Listeners can learn more about her research and upcoming publications through the University of Nevada, Reno's Department of History website and her book's dedicated page at the University of North Carolina Press.