
Mexican Martyrdom: Firsthand Accounts of the Religious Persecution in Mexico 1926-1935 offers a profound look into a tumultuous period in Mexican history. This book, written in 1936 by Fr. Wilfrid Parsons, provides contemporary stories that vividly depict the struggles faced by Catholics during the Cristeros War.
The narrative highlights how Presidente Calles manipulated the Mexican Constitution to control all branches of government, targeting the Catholic Church, which was the faith of 95% of the population. The book serves as a historical document and a prescient warning about political realities that resonate even today.
Readers will find detailed accounts of the relationship between the Catholic Church and the state before, during, and after the Revolution. The book also sheds light on the role of external influences, such as U.S. funding of the Calles regime, which exacerbated the persecution.
For those interested in understanding Mexico's national soul and its historical context, this book is an essential read. It complements other works like Blood Drenched Altars by Msgr. Clement Kelley, providing a comprehensive view of the era.
Overall, Mexican Martyrdom is not just a historical account but also a call to reflect on current freedoms and fight against oppression. It is a must-read for anyone interested in history, religion, and political science.
