Revisionist history on Mexico, the Southwest
To the editor:
Wednesday's letter from Robert Salas ("quick history lesson") is a typical liberal revisionist history attempt to justify illegal immigration from Mexico.
Mr. Salas claims that Mexico lost half of its "homeland" due to "expansionist politicians in Washington" during the U.S.-Mexican War. The self-styled "history buff" failed to mention that what is now the southwestern United States was declared to be part of Mexico in the late 18th century as part of the expansionist policies of the kingdom of Spain, of which Mexico was a colony. That's why Mexicans speak Spanish, not "Mexican."
Mr. Salas mentions that "Mexico lacked the infrastructure to develop the land." Let's be clear: The indigenous people of Mexico did not explore, settle, farm or ranch in the southwestern United States. Illegal immigrants who have "established themselves" hardly have any rights because the king of Spain put the word "Mexico" on a map of Nevada 200 years ago.
Mike Morgan
Las Vegas
Southern man
To the editor:
There's no doubt that if the election for governor were held today, Republican Brian Sandoval would be elected. But before Clark County residents fling themselves on his bandwagon, there is something they should be aware of: People from Northern Nevada elected to statewide office believe their first responsibility is to take care of their home district.
Gov. Jim Gibbons is Exhibit A in this regard. He took care of Reno and the northern counties. It didn't matter to him that Clark County has about two-thirds of the state's population, and provides almost 80 percent of state funding. When they're dispensing state aid, we're not important.
Guess what? Brian Sandoval is from Reno.
Democrat Rory Reid is head of the Clark County Commission and will make sure we get fair treatment when state funds are dispensed. It's an easy choice for Clark County residents.
Richard J. Mundy
Las Vegas
