Savage Song: Racist Violence and Armed Resistance in the Early Twentieth-Century U.S.-Mexico Borderlands

This book explores the intersection of collective and state violence with racialized social boundaries around Mexican and African Americans in the US, highlighting the 1915 rebellion of ethnic Mexicans in South Texas and the 1917 mutiny of black soldiers in Houston. It examines how racialized constructions of masculinity were employed, how African and Mexican American men responded to violence, and how their resistance was understood by law enforcement, politicians, and the press.

\n Format: Hardback
\n Length: 224 pages
\n Publication date: 13 July 2021
\n Publisher: Manchester University Press
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This captivating book delves into critical historical moments when collective and state violence played a pivotal role in shaping racialized social boundaries around Mexican and African Americans in the United States. It explores the violent contests that took place at these junctures, challenging and dismantling these discriminatory constructs. By bringing anti-Mexican violence into a unified analytical framework alongside anti-black violence, A Savage Song offers a comprehensive examination of several overlooked chapters in this often-overlooked history.

The book highlights significant events such as the 1915 rebellion of ethnic Mexicans in South Texas, where they bravely fought against oppressive forces, only to face brutal repression by the Texas Rangers. In response to police brutality, black soldiers of the 24th Infantry Regiment in Houston, Texas, staged a mutiny in 1917, highlighting the enduring struggles of African and Mexican American men against racial injustice.

Aragon delves into the intricate nuances of these historical moments, exploring how racialized constructions of masculinity were employed differently across these contexts. He examines how African and Mexican American men, including those in uniform, responded to the violence of racism, showcasing their resilience and determination. The book also sheds light on how their resistance, including their claims to manhood and nation, was perceived and understood by law enforcement, politicians, and the press.

Through extensive archival research, Aragon meticulously examines how African and Mexican American men have been constructed as "racial problems." He explores their complex relationship with law enforcement, scrutinizing the ideologies that perpetuated black and Mexican criminality. This book offers a profound understanding of the historical forces that have shaped the lives of these communities, shedding light on the ongoing struggle for equality and justice.

In conclusion, A Savage Song is a groundbreaking work that challenges our understanding of racial boundaries and the violence that has been perpetuated against marginalized communities. By examining these critical historical moments, the book provides a valuable contribution to our collective memory and understanding of American history. It serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle for racial equality and the importance of confronting the legacies of discrimination and violence.

\n Weight: 524g\n
Dimension: 163 x 240 x 22 (mm)\n
ISBN-13: 9781526121677\n \n