Paper short abstract:

Beginning in the decade immediately following independence, analysing the issues surrounding state formation developed into a constant concern of the Mexican intelligentsia. This paper seeks to examine this political discourse and examine the themes of legitimacy and illegitimacy that run through it

Paper long abstract:

Beginning in the decade immediately following independence, analysing the issues surrounding state formation, as well as the historical events which shaped them, developed into a constant concern of the Mexican intelligentsia. These actors, participated in the proposal, amendment and implementation of constitutional projects through 'legitimate' means. However, during their political career, many of these men also challenged the status quo by participating in pronunciamientos, revolts and revolutions. The various justifications they provide can be found in their political discourse, where motivations were put forth and accusations levied against political enemies. This paper seeks to examine this political discourse and analyse the themes of legitimacy and illegitimacy that run through it, exposing an often ambivalent approach to the right or wrong of certain political actions in the struggle to construct a nation.