The Pastry War: Prelude to Conflict on October 8, 1838

The Pastry War, a lesser-known conflict between France and Mexico, entered its final stages on October 8, 1838. This was marked by escalating tensions over compensation demands from France for damages incurred during Mexican civil disturbances. The conflict is historically significant as it underscored international relations and the emerging power struggles in the 19th century.

Background

In the early 19th century, Mexico experienced considerable political instability post-independence, resulting in frequent civil disruptions. During one such event in 1828, French-owned businesses, including a patisserie in Tacubaya owned by a Monsieur Remontel, suffered damages and looting. The French government, under King Louis-Philippe I, supported claims for compensation presented by these nationals.

French Demands and Mexican Response

By the late 1830s, France had grown increasingly assertive, frustrated by Mexico’s inability or unwillingness to repay loans and settle other financial claims. On October 8, 1838, France issued a stern ultimatum, demanding 600,000 pesos—an exorbitant sum compared to the actual damages and Mexico’s financial capabilities. This demand was symbolic, as it included claims like Remontel’s that had been neglected for a decade.

President Anastasio Bustamante’s government in Mexico, struggling with internal dissent and financial hardship, was unable to meet these demands, leading to heightened tensions. Concurrently, there was a strong sentiment in Mexico against yielding to foreign pressures, as it was seen as infringing on national sovereignty.

Escalation and Conflict

Following the October ultimatum, and Mexico’s non-compliance, France resorted to military action. A naval blockade began, targeting Mexican ports to pressurize the Mexican government. The French eventually seized the port of Veracruz, marking the beginning of open hostilities in what would be known as the Pastry War.

Historical Significance

The Pastry War was a formative conflict in Mexico’s early post-independence history, highlighting the vulnerability of the newly independent nation to foreign intervention. It also exemplified the broader European involvement in Latin America during this era, with France asserting its geopolitical interests after seeing the decline of Spain’s colonial influence.

The conflict’s resolution through British mediation in 1839 and the subsequent Treaty of Veracruz would conclude the direct hostilities, but it underscored the geopolitical challenges Mexico faced and set the stage for future foreign interventions in the country.