The U.S. Intervention in Northern Mexico 1916-1917
This web page, published by the Military Postal History Society, contains images of the single frame U. S. Intervention in Northern Mexico exhibit pages created by the late Al Kugel. This exhibit was created by, and is the property of the late Al Kugel, and is being supplied by his heirs as a courtesy to the Military Postal History Society.
Introduction
This exhibit documents the postal history of the American military intervention in northern Mexico prior to our entry into World War I. There had been considerable political unrest and armed conflict between rival political factions in Mexico since the overthrow of President Diaz in 1911. By 1916, a number of local warlords were able to defy the central authorities and establish their own control over sizable areas of the country. One of these, Francisco (Pancho) Villa, was very popular in the State of Chihuahua and apparently felt that he was ready for the big time. On the morning of 9 March, he led 500 of his men across the border to raid Columbus, New Mexico looking for arms and ammunition. The ensuing battle lasted for three hours and left 76 Mexicans and 17 Americans dead. President Wilson immediately ordered Gen. John J. Pershing to organize a retaliatory campaign to capture Villa.
To view the text within these images, see: web page containing the text content of the exhibit frame.
Updated 11/8/2024
Table of Contents
Introduction -- U. S. Forces Arrive at Raid Scene -- The Advance Into Mexico -- Flown From Mexico -- Call-Up of National Guard -- Use of Civilian Post Offices -- Strengthening the Border -- Reinforcements Arrive -- Douglas, Arizona -- Last Day of the Mexican Expedition
