Additional imperial and French forces would give Maximilian leverage over his conservative generals. That independence would allow negotiations with parts of the liberal opposition, even if Juárez himself refused to submit. The proposed aim is to detach leaders and reduce the forces remaining against the empire. Capturing opponents, trying them and then pardoning them is offered as a calculated display of mercy that could help recruit former enemies. The assessment doubts that Maximilian possessed the cynicism needed to carry out this policy.
Notable Point · 53:06-54:54
Divide the liberals through negotiation and calculated clemency
A stronger army would let Maximilian restrain conservative allies and try to detach leaders from the republican opposition.