Historic Mexican Troops on Revillagigedo Street, 1913

This historical photograph, produced around 1913 by the Bain News Service, showcases Mexican troops on Calle de Revillagigedo (Revillagigedo) in Mexico City. At this time, Mexico was embroiled in a tumultuous revolution that began in 1910, as various factions fought against the longstanding dictatorship of Porfirio Díaz. The presence of soldiers in urban areas like Revillagigedo reflects the significant military mobilization that was necessary to manage the conflict and maintain order amidst widespread social upheaval.

The image not only highlights the soldiers but also serves as a snapshot of the period’s architectural backdrop, capturing the blend of colonial and modern influences in Mexico City. Troops like those depicted often faced challenges such as supply shortages, skirmishes with rival forces, and the need to control civilian populations. This photograph is a poignant reminder of the vibrant yet chaotic environment of early 20th-century Mexico, where the struggle for political and social reform was visibly unfolding on the streets.