Now in a thoroughly updated edition, this comprehensive and engaging text explores contemporary Mexico's political development and examines the most important policy issues facing Mexico in the twenty-first century. The first half of the book begins with a broad historical overview leading to the 1910 Revolution, the emergence of the modern Mexican political system, and the transition from single party rule to democracy. It includes a thorough discussion of government and party politics under the long-ruling PRI (Institutional Revolutionary Party), and of two successive PAN (National Action Party) presidential administrations. The second half of the book analyzes the most pressing challenges confronting Mexican society today, including promoting economic development, reducing poverty and inequality, strengthening civil society, combating crime and violence, and bolstering relations with the United States. How these challenges are addressed will be crucial for Mexico as it looks to the 2012 presidential elections and beyond.

The text to this revised edition is richly supplemented by new figures and tables that illustrate broad political, social, and economic trends, and boxes that provide in-depth treatment of a variety of subjects and concepts. Readers will find this widely praised book continues to be the most current and accessible work available on Mexico's politics and policy.