Leon's conservatives sought to limit the influence of the revolutionary government because state-sponsored modernization projects threatened local character and institutions. Tensions regarding the extent of state power culminated in the 1946 Leon massacre, during which government troops gunned down more than two dozen citizens. As the defining moment in local history, the violent confrontation helped solidify a new elite consensus, or an "official story," that hinged on negotiated tenets of modernity-particularly ideals of industrialization and democracy-and supposedly validated state power among the general population.

Newcomer argues that advocates of the revolutionary state and their local opposition, including the pro-Catholic Sinarquistas, attempted to create "hegemonic appearances" to legitimate their claims to political power but ultimately relied on a rationalization of the use of state violence to enforce the social order they idealized. Reconciling Modernity concludes that the postrevolutionary government proved unable to legitimize its rule among the popular classes and reveals how history written by the victors can obscure the processes of historical change.

Mexico is a heady sort of place; it inundates you with sights, sounds, smells, tastes, and tactile sensations. A dry text, no matter how informative, just doesn't do justice to Mexico's allure. DK's Eyewitness Travel Guide series, on the other hand, does. Sure, it provides the necessary data points. The "Travelers' Needs" section contains 168 recommended hotel options and another 168 restaurants--as well as a beautifully illustrated guide to the foods of Mexico. And there are pages of practical information on visas, health precautions, time zones, electricity, taxis, security, banking, communications, and the like.
But DK's guide provides far more inspirational than a mere collection of data. The two-page glossy color map of Mexico is not just clear and easy to understand, it's beautiful. The hundreds of color photographs throughout the book are exquisite, depicting the sere hilltop archeological site of Monte Alban fishermen preparing nets on a Yucatan beach, the vibrancy of a fruit market in San Cristobal de las Casas, the green lushness of the wetlands, the scrub of the Sonora desert, and the intense vegetation of the Tehuantepec rainforests. There are 3-D aerial-view layouts of towns and ancient sites, cutaways and floor plans for churches and pyramids, as well as wonderful explanatory texts for each region, delving into history, traditions, sights, fiestas, foods, music, and activities. DK's is a guide book that is actually a pleasure to use--one that adds excitement to the necessary task of planning your vacation.

Now in its updated 13th edition, The People's Guide to Mexico still offers the ideal combination of basic travel information, entertaining stories, and friendly guidance about everything from driving in Mexico City to hanging a hammock to bartering at the local mercado.

Features include:
- Advice on planning your trip, where to go, and how to get around once you're there
- Practical tips to help you stay healthy and safe, deal with red tape, change money, send email, letters and packages, use the telephone, do laundry, order food, speak like a local, and more
- Well-informed insight into Mexican culture, and hints for enjoying traditional fiestas and celebrations
- The most complete information available on Mexican Internet resources, book and map reviews, and other info sources for travelers.