Paul J. Vanderwood is Professor Emeritus van de Mexicaanse geschiedenis. Zijn werk duikt in de complexe en vaak turbulente kruispunten van macht, religie en sociale onrust in Mexico. Vanderwoods onderzoek belicht clandestiene activiteiten, daagt officiële verhalen uit en verkent de levens van figuren die aan de rand van de samenleving opereerden.
The book delves into the gambling industry's evolution in Tijuana during the early 20th century, highlighting its parallel growth with Southern California. It examines the industry's influence on crime, gang activity, political corruption, and the effects of prohibition, showcasing a complex interplay between entertainment and societal issues in the region.
Examines bandits, police, and Mexican politics as a whole, showing how different groups used the agents of order and disorder to serve their interests. This work includes material on the period of the independence wars and on Pancho Villa, and a bibliography.