Migra!: A History of the U.S. Border Patrol (American Crossroads) (Volume 29)

This book titles itself as a study of the US Border Patrol. It is that, but in a complex way. It studies the first 50 years of the USBP, but primarily examines the migration of Mexicans into the US and efforts to control it. Hernandez has written an interesting and compelling book about how the USBP originated as a fairly local organization that used a lot of violence to do its work. As it grew and transformed, it became more complex, changed tactics, and often had varying missions. This book also chronicles the changing and complex attitudes towards Mexican migrants in Texas and California. Many farmers wanted Mexicans for cheap labor, while most lower-income people opposed their impact on wages. The USBP fit into all of that, often at war with both migrants and farmers.The book itself could have benefited from a better editor. A few areas were repetitive or poorly organized, but the reading itself is nonetheless interesting. This is not a casual read, certainly intended for an academic audience. But those who are highly interested in immigration and Border Patrol issues will find this a worthwhile read.

Great reading. The Border Patrol has a very interesting history.

Perceptive and thorough without being pedantic, this fascinating account of the Border Patrol's origins and culture will improve one's understanding of today's border management and immigration issues. Highly recommended.

I think that Migra! is one of the most through and interesting books discussing the policies around the U.S.-Mexican border. Not only does she discuss the U.S. border patrol, she discusses how the relationship between the U.S. and Mexico largely impacted the practices and policies of the U.S. It's both fascinating and well-written as well as delving into the complex interplay between policy and enforcement.

I was Super Stoked to receive this amazing book on time and as promised, Thank You!

A very fine history of the United States Border Patrol, warts and all, that offers a very excellent overview of the early days of this important law enforcement agency.

I thought this was going to be a boring book, but the details and different view points on immigration and how mexicans were treated made this book very interesting!

I had hoped to get an objective view of the Border Patrol, but instead it's a smear job. While factually accurate from a historical perspective, it's a wholly one sided story that paints the organization, and all white people for that matter, as racists. The author obviously hates white people and doesn't even try to hide it. The tone of the whole book makes the author come off as an angry and offended person.