One proposed route makes Mexican silver supplies economically essential to France in its competition with Prussia. Another secures French troops by making Maximilian's government more directly subordinate to French interests. The latter would cost him local support and strengthen the colonial character of the conflict. It would also make American aid to his opponents easier to justify. Britain and Spain offer little additional support in this scenario, having already withdrawn after pursuing their own financial and dynastic objectives.
Notable Point · 44:38-46:01
Silver supplies and the risk of subordination to France
Two routes to greater French support have different consequences for Maximilian's domestic authority.