Los Sexenios, Clío TV – Gustavo Díaz Ordaz Y El '68

The Presidency of Gustavo Díaz Ordaz

The segment discusses the presidency of Gustavo Díaz Ordaz, highlighting his economic success but also his political shortcomings that led Mexico into a deadlock.

Economic Success and Political Challenges

• Gustavo Díaz Ordaz's presidency marked a turning point in Mexican politics, with exceptional economic performance but political decisions leading to a dead-end.

• Despite economic growth during Díaz Ordaz's term, characterized by rising salaries and expanding middle classes, his leadership faced criticism for stifling freedom and autonomy.

Youth Rebellion and Cultural Shifts

This part delves into the youth rebellion and cultural transformations during the 1960s, contrasting societal norms with emerging countercultural movements.

Countercultural Movements

• Youth rebellion in the 1960s aimed at challenging traditional authority figures and societal norms.

• The emergence of countercultural movements like rock music and liberal attitudes posed challenges to conservative values globally.

Economic Prosperity under Díaz Ordaz

Discusses the economic prosperity experienced in Mexico during Gustavo Díaz Ordaz's presidency, emphasizing financial stability and growth indicators.

Economic Growth Indicators

• Mexico witnessed significant economic growth under Díaz Ordaz, reflected in rising wages, increased consumer access to durable goods, and a balanced trade situation.

The Medical Movement in Mexico, 1964-1965

The transcript delves into the medical movement in Mexico during 1964-1965, highlighting the challenges faced by medical professionals and their struggle for improved working conditions and recognition.

Medical Professionals' Struggle

• Discontent among medical professionals due to poor working conditions and low salaries.

• Rumors of non-payment of year-end bonuses lead to a strike by 200 doctors at Hospital 20 de Noviembre.

• Formation of the Mexican Association of Resident and Intern Doctors (HAMRE) demanding better terms including converting stipends to work contracts.

Negotiations with President Diaz Ordaz

• President Diaz Ordaz's dismissive response to doctors' demands, urging them to follow proper negotiation channels.

• Hospitals across Mexico join the movement, leading to a temporary halt on strikes but later resuming due to government inaction.

Alliance Formation and Resolution

• The Alliance of Mexican Doctors formed, representing a significant portion of medical professionals.

• Despite salary increases granted by the president, the conversion of stipends into contracts remains unresolved, leading to further strikes.

Student Rebellion in Morelia, 1966

The transcript discusses student rebellion in Morelia in 1966 following an increase in public transport fares and subsequent government crackdown on student protests.

Student Uprising

• Initial unrest sparked by a rise in public transport fares leading to student demonstrations.

• Government blamed professional agitators for student unrest; military occupation of universities ensued.

Government Response and Warning

President Diaz Ordaz responds harshly to dissenting voices within both the medical profession and student movements.

Presidential Actions

• Mass dismissal of protesting doctors followed by military intervention at hospitals.

New Section

The transcript discusses the events that unfolded in Mexico starting from July 22, 1968, including student clashes, police intervention, and the formation of student movements.

Events Leading to Student Movements

• : On July 22, 1968, a dispute between two groups of students during an American football game escalated into a violent confrontation in the city square.

• : Subsequent clashes led to police intervention and student protests against police brutality and occupation of educational institutions.

• : The conflict intensified with mounted police and riot officers engaging violently with students who responded by setting buses on fire.

• : The army dramatically intervened by entering educational premises and arresting students and communist party members.

Student Movements and Protests

This section delves into the escalation of student protests, injuries, detentions, and the emergence of organized resistance movements.

Escalation of Protests

• : Over 400 injuries and 1000 detentions were reported as protests spread across universities in response to military occupation.

• : Rector Javier Barros Sierra led a march of over 50,000 people protesting against military presence in educational institutions.

• : The Council National Strike published demands for political reforms including freedom for political prisoners and changes in penal codes.

Formation of Student Coalitions

This part highlights the unity among students from various backgrounds forming coalitions to advocate for political reforms.

Coalition Building

• : The Council National Strike comprised representatives from different schools advocating for diverse political ideologies.

• : Demands presented to the government reflected broad political concerns rather than specific ideological agendas.

Shift Towards Direct Democracy

Students embraced direct democracy principles leading to inclusive decision-making processes within protest movements.

Embracing Direct Democracy

• : Assemblies allowed all participants to vote on resolutions without ideological bias towards Marxism or other doctrines.

The Student Movement in Mexico - 1968

The transcript delves into the student movement in Mexico in 1968, highlighting key events, such as protests and government responses, leading up to a significant confrontation on October 2nd.

Events Leading to the Confrontation

• In September, students initiated a protest intending to stay at Zócalo until the presidential report day. The army violently removed 3000 protesters from guarding the National Palace.

• Despite calls for dialogue, signs of escalation increased with tanks positioned near universities. The movement faced criticism but aimed to uphold civil order.

Escalation and Crackdown

• On September 13th, a new civic battle unfolded with a silent demonstration involving around 200,000 youth. This event left a lasting impact on many.

• Subsequent events included the military occupation of university campuses and clashes between students and police leaders being detained.

Tragic Turn of Events on October 2nd

• On October 2nd, thousands gathered at Tlatelolco for a quick rally due to army presence. Orders were strict not to linger except for essential members.

• As tensions rose, individuals with white gloves began shooting indiscriminately from a building's third floor during the rally, leading to chaos and tragedy.

The Tlatelolco Massacre: Insights and Reflections

The transcript delves into the tragic events of the Tlatelolco Massacre, providing detailed accounts and reflections on the violence that unfolded.

Events Leading to the Massacre

• Soldiers shot at individuals from a third-floor railing, targeting those who crossed the building's edge.

• Gunfire erupted from various directions, causing terror as people tried to escape the barrage of bullets.

• Intense firing lasted over an hour before a tank fired into the square, marking a significant escalation.

Aftermath and Repression

• President Diaz Ordaz highlighted confusion regarding the source of gunfire during crucial moments.

• Over 2000 individuals were detained that night, subjected to violence and confiscation of weapons.

Consequences and Legacy of the Tragedy

This section explores the enduring impact and aftermath of the Tlatelolco Massacre on Mexican society.

Ongoing Repression and Censorship

• The military enforced censorship by preventing ambulances from entering, hindering aid efforts.

• The brutal repression resulted in over 300 deaths, shocking many with its ferocity and cowardice.

Uncovering Truth Amidst Suppression

• Conflicting reports emerged about casualty numbers, with bodies potentially disposed of to conceal evidence.

Reflections on Historical Significance

Reflecting on historical implications and personal responses to the massacre.

Symbolism and Tragedy

• The massacre site held deep historical significance due to its association with human sacrifices in Aztec times.

Political Fallout and Personal Accountability

Examining political repercussions following the massacre.

Political Reactions

• Octavio Paz resigned as ambassador upon learning about Tlatelolco, reflecting widespread shock and condemnation.

Legacy of Leaders Involved

Exploring how key figures dealt with their roles post-massacre.

Diaz Ordaz's Legacy

New Section

In this segment, the speaker reflects on the impact of historical events on Mexico, particularly referencing Tlatelolco as a pivotal incident that divided the country into distinct periods.

Impact of Tlatelolco Incident

• The speaker emphasizes that Mexico experienced a significant transformation before and after the Tlatelolco incident.

• A musical interlude occurs in the discussion.

• Diaz Ordaz's statement about Mexico not being the same before and after Tlatelolco is highlighted as a critical perspective.