Visioni LatinoAmericane 25 (2021)

The author presents an analysis of the historical events collectively known as the pastry war, which took place between Mexico and France during the years 1838-1839. This conflict was caused by the Mexican government’s difficulties in paying the debts contracted with foreign nations and by France’s ambition to play a key political role in the Caribbean area thanks to her renewed navy. The war saw a naval blockade of the port of Vera Cruz and had important political consequences for the history of Mexico, since it marked the return of Santa Anna on the political scene of his country. The pastry war was also the first major test for the Monroe Doctrine of the United States.