Ing. Modesto C. Rolland  at the inauguration of the Puertos Libres/Free Ports, 1924.

Image from the Fototeca Nacional, num. inv. 135142

http://fototeca.inah.gob.mx/fototeca

Rolland Presnetation at Arkansas State University

On March 4, 2014, I will give a talk at Arkansas State University, where I am an assistant professor of history, on the Modesto C. Rolland project. The title of the presentation is "Engineering Revolution: The Life and Times of Modesto C. Rolland. Below is the abstract:

In 1910 the first massive social revolution of the twentieth century broke out in Mexico. Angered by the politically closed and aging dictatorship of Porfirio Díaz, and by the influence of foreign businesses, Mexico’s growing middle sectors instigated the conflict, engulfing the entire country in war. This nascent middle class aspired to power but also to commence a new era of national incorporation and modernization.  Although little discussed by scholars of Mexico, engineers were absolutely crucial to the successes and failures of the revolution and the developmental schemes of the revolution-era governments that followed (1920-1946). My presentation examines the essential role of these professionals through the life of a little-known but remarkable polymath, engineer Modesto C. Rolland, who thrived before, during, and after the revolution, becoming a key figure in the government and private sectors that developed in the wake of the revolution.

Arkansas State University's assistance has been crucial in my ability to carry on my research on Rolland and revolution-era engineers in Mexico. Sharing this work with students and faculty will help build interest and maintain support for the project.








Saludos,
Dr. Justin Castro