Abstract

Mexico: Ballots Without Bullets

The article presents information on elections held in Mexico City, Mexico on July 6, 1946. On that day, Mexico City pulled down its iron shutters, laid in a stock of food and bolted its doors, prepared for elections next day. Women and children were warned off streets and extra troops were moved in as the army got ready to take over. The president had given his word that this time elections would be orderly, free and fair; but among average, non-political people the customary attitude prevailed: "Me? Go out to vote? I'm a peaceable citizen!" Late that night, cordons of jeeps and armored trucks swung out along the deserted avenues. Platoons deployed quietly into the "delicate" spots and squads went to guard each polling-place.