For Christ and Country : Militant Catholic Youth in Post-Revolutionary Mexico

Examines the religious beliefs and practices of a generation of Catholics who came of age in the aftermath of the Mexican Revolution. It centers on José de León Toral, who killed revolutionary leader Álvaro Obregón to combat anticlerical laws and bring on a millenarian vision of the Kingdom of Christ.

Why did José de León Toral kill Álvaro Obregón, leader of the Mexican Revolution? So far, historians have characterized the motivations of the young Catholic militant as the fruit of fanaticism. This book offers new insights on how diverse sectors experienced the aftermath of the Revolution by exploring the religious, political, and cultural contentions of the 1920s. Far from an isolated fanatic, León Toral represented a generation of Mexicans who believed that the revolution had unleashed ancient barbarism, sinful consumerism, and anticlerical tyranny. Facing attacks against the Catholic essence of Mexican nationalism, they emphasized asceticism, sacrifice, and the redemptive potential of violence. Their reckless enthusiasm to launch assaults was a sign of their devotion. León Toral insisted that ''only God'' was his accomplice; in fact, he was cheered by thousands who dreamed of bringing the Kingdom of Christ to beleaguered Mexico.