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8 United States because it seems sure to have a rapid development. Had not the World War absorbed the attention of the world, the conditions that have developed south of the Rio Grande would almost surely have been followed before now by international action. The interests of the United States would have prompted it but, even if the desire not to offend the susceptibilities of the other Latin American states had delayed action, and even if those who believe that the government owes no responsibility to its citizens who invest their lives and property in foreign lands had been able to hold back the hand of the administration, some forward step would almost certainly have been found necessary.

Even if the United States had been willing to suffer and wait, it seems little likely that other powers would have been content to do so. That they would not have, been willing is indicated by the action taken by European powers toward Haiti in the days immediately preceding the World War. The larger interests held by the citizens of European governments in Mexico would have prompted them to take measures to protect their interests there if the United States would not. A threat to do so is the easiest way to force the American hand.

As in civil society, so in international affairs, the shortcomings of the weak are the problems of the strong. As the period of reconstruction progresses, Mexican affairs will again assume importance not only in American international policy but in that of all the great powers. There must be created within the republic a government that can establish order, that will respect individual rights, put the great resources of the nation again at the