For Christ and Country
Militant Catholic Youth in Post-Revolutionary Mexico
Robert Weis
- English
- PDF
- Available on iOS & Android
For Christ and Country
Militant Catholic Youth in Post-Revolutionary Mexico
Robert Weis
About This Book
Why did JosĂ© de LeĂłn Toral kill Ălvaro ObregĂłn, leader of the Mexican Revolution? So far, historians have characterized the motivations of the young Catholic militant as the fruit of fanaticism. This book offers new insights on how diverse sectors experienced the aftermath of the Revolution by exploring the religious, political, and cultural contentions of the 1920s. Far from an isolated fanatic, LeĂłn Toral represented a generation of Mexicans who believed that the revolution had unleashed ancient barbarism, sinful consumerism, and anticlerical tyranny. Facing attacks against the Catholic essence of Mexican nationalism, they emphasized asceticism, sacrifice, and the redemptive potential of violence. Their reckless enthusiasm to launch assaults was a sign of their devotion. LeĂłn Toral insisted that 'only God' was his accomplice; in fact, he was cheered by thousands who dreamed of bringing the Kingdom of Christ to beleaguered Mexico.