Why Mexico Does Not Seek Its Lost Lands Back From The U.S.

There is a misconception among some that Mexico is actively seeking to reclaim territories that were once under its jurisdiction. However, it is essential to understand the historical context and the legal realities surrounding these claims. Mexico does not seek back its land from the U.S., but rather its 'lost lands' are a concept rooted in historical inaccuracies and stereotypes.

Historical Context: The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo

The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo signed in February 1848 officially ended the U.S.-Mexican War. This treaty, under which the vast territories of California, Arizona, New Mexico, Nevada, Utah, parts of Wyoming, and Colorado were ceded to the United States, was a result of a significant conflict. Despite the war, the U.S. compensated Mexico with $15 million and recognized American sovereignty over the territories.

The Myth of 'Lost Lands'

Some individuals mistakenly believe that Mexico still holds a claim on some of these territories. This is a misinterpretation of history. When a country engages in war and agrees to treaties as part of the settlement, the terms are clear. The sale of land and compensation are final. For example, the descendants of the original inhabitants or ancestors cannot claim lands years later, as their claims would be legally invalid.

Legal and Ownership Perspectives

In legal terms, ownership of property is established through proper documentation and agreements. Similarly, when a war ends with a treaty, the terms are enforced by international law. In the case of the U.S.-Mexican War, the U.S. and Mexico signed a treaty, and the lands were ceded to the U.S. This simple fact makes any claims of 'lost lands' irrefutable from a legal standpoint. The concept of reclaiming property that has been sold and compensated for is not only dilatory but also legally untenable.

The Role of Colonialism and Conquest

The territories in question were not "stolen by force" in the sense of a modern, illegal act. Rather, they were captured through armed conflict. During this period, the concept of colonization and conquest was prevalent in the world, and the U.S. was simply one of many actors in this global historical narrative. The 'right of conquest' in international law recognized at the time allowed the winning party the right to claim territories conquered during war.

American and Mexican Populations

The populations in the territories that the U.S. acquired were diverse. Indigenous peoples, Spanish and Mexican residents, and American settlers were all present. The New Mexican Hispanos, for instance, are descendants of pre-1846 inhabitants and do not consider themselves Mexican. Their relations with Mexico were tumultuous during the brief period they were part of Mexico. The U.S. annexation came through the Know Nothing Party backing of the annexation, aligning U.S., New Mexican, and Federal governments against Texas.

Challenges of Revisiting Historical Claims

Even if there were valid claims of 'lost lands,' there are significant challenges in revisiting historical disputes. Firstly, the territories are now part of sovereign U.S. states with well-established legal frameworks and systems. Unilaterally redefining these territories would be politically and legally challenging. Secondly, the historical context of the era, including the wars and treaties, complicates any modern-day claims.

Conclusion

Mexico does not seek back its land from the U.S. The historical and legal context makes these claims baseless. The U.S. and Mexico reached a definitive agreement through the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, and subsequent history has not altered the legal ownership of these territories. It is important to understand the complexity of historical claims and the importance of adhering to international and domestic legal standards.