France, Mexico and Informal Empire in Latin America, 1820-1867

Focusing on the unique aspects of French imperialism, this book examines the 19th-century military intervention in Mexico under Louis-Napoléon, which aimed to counter US influence. It argues against the portrayal of this endeavor as merely an "illusion" and situates it within the framework of informal empire. The narrative delves into the interplay of French and Mexican monarchist ideas, the rise of anti-American sentiment, and the collaboration of Mexican elites with French forces, all within a broader transatlantic context that redefined national identities and concepts of Latin America.