Mexico could expect little naval obstruction of France from the United States in 1838, while British creditors had their own interests in payment. France also lacked the favorable Mexican trade agreements enjoyed by Britain and the United States and faced higher taxes. Further claims included losses by French shopkeepers in the Parían market and the execution of a French citizen. French prime minister Louis Mathieu Molé put the demand at 600,000 pesos, equated here with three million francs. President Anastasio Bustamante refused to pay or negotiate over that demand.
Notable Point · 13:23-15:13
Trade taxes and the widening French compensation demand
French trade grievances and additional claims expanded the dispute to a demand for 600,000 pesos.