The Surprising Role Of Mexico In World War II

When we talk about about World War II - all we can name are the Allied and the Axis Powers. Mexico's name almost never pops up. But Mexico was an important ally to America, supplying resources and maintaining industrial production. In fact, several Mexicans enrolled in the army during the war. As part of Bracero program, a lot of farm workers also crossed the US border to work in agriculture which raised tension in the two countries for around 2 decades.

Before the World War II, America and Mexico seemed to be unlikely allies. The late 1930's saw increasing tensions between the two countries mainly because of Mexico's decision of nationalization of country's oil industry which angered US oil companies. Many Mexican also resented US for loss of 55% of their territory in US-Mexican war.

So, what changed? The participation in the war would somehow connect to their sentiments of ousting a dictator. Initially, the support from Mexico was just in economic and material assistance but it soon changed to military participation owing to this feeling. More and more workers moved to US, the country's dependence on migrant workers increased. The Mexican economy also booms at the time with huge improvements in industrial and economic development. National income of Mexico increased by three times during 1940-1946. The time period came to be known as 'Mexican Miracle'.

By: Neha Maheshwari

Content: https://www.history.com/news/mexico-world-war-ii-surprising-involvement