Abstract

ZERMENO PADILLA, Guillermo. The return of the Jesuits to Mexico in the 19 ^th Century: some contradictions. Hist. mex. [online]. 2015, vol.64, n.4, pp.1463-1540. ISSN 2448-6531.

The history of the return of the Jesuits to Mexico, following their expulsion in 1767, has already been recounted and documented many times. In general, these narratives emphasize the continuity between the old and new Company, a reading of events that took form during the 19th Century. However, this article places special emphasis on the political and cultural rupture caused by the events of 1808-1821 to explain the great difficulties the Jesuits faced in securing their reestablishment. It also notes that the Jesuits who returned to New Spain in 1816, while struggling to update their tradition and ideology, also had to face situations unforeseen by their founders and followers. In this sense, a permanent state of improvisation marked their return during the 19th Century, and only until the recent reforms at the end of the 20th Century have they been able to enjoy official recognition by the Mexican government. In this light, the struggles and conflicts prior to their expulsion in 1767 take on greater importance.

Keywords : New Spain; jesuits; religion; 19^th Century.