This research paper describes and analyzes the Chiapas rebellion in Mexico in 1994-1995, what happened and why and the consequences. This outbreak of violence in the state of Chiapas did not represent a spontaneous indigenous uprising nor did it represent a serious military threat to the Federal government; however, because of when and where it occurred and its after effects, including the government's reaction and other events, it helped accelerate political change in Mexico and reflected the severe economic and social stresses which were associated with the economic restructuring and modernization of the country.
On January 1-2, 1994, six days after Mexico ratified the North American Free Trade Agreements (NAFTA), a force of 1000-3000 armed guerrillas seized control of San Cristobal de las Casas, the capital, and a handful of other towns in the State of Chiapas in the southeastern corner of Mexico.1 The rebels called themselves the Zapatista Army of National Liberation (EZLN) after Emiliano Zapata, one of the leaders of the Mexican Revolution of 1910, who called for the return of land to the peasants. In their communique of January 6, EZLN called for economic and social reforms, the resignation of the government of President Carlos Salinas de Gortari and "clean elections throughout the country."2
Caught by surprise, the Federal government initially sent in 12,000 troops, (one fourth of Mexico's army), backed by tanks and aircraft, to put down the revolt. The fighting was over in twelve days. The rebels melted into the jungle after some brief exchanges of fire. Total casualties in this phase were estimated to be about four hundred.3 On January 12, Salinas announced a unilateral ceasefire and offered peace talks. The revolt was given front page news coverage in Mexico and around the world, most of which was critical of the Mexican government's handling of the situation, including reported executions and other alleged a...