Latin America: Wet Feet

Certain activities along the Rio Grande last week suggested that Texas wages sometimes loom larger to Mexicans than Texas racial discrimination (TIME, Feb. 7). Word got about that Mexicans were sneaking across the Rio Grande, violating their own Government's embargo and taking jobs on undermanned Texas farms.

Texans called these illegal emigres "wet feet." Some border employers complained that U.S. officialdom was too zealous in its efforts to stop the traffic. Border Texans were also howling mad because their local Mexicans were being "lured" in turn by northern and western farmers.

...

Want the full story?

Subscribe Now

Subscribe
Subscribe

Learn more about the benefits of being a TIME subscriber

If you are already a subscriber sign up — registration is free!