This book covers the vital period in British history as recognized by George Canning when he said that "no questions can be more immediately important to Europe and to Great Britain than those which relate to America". Based on research on private papers and official sources, this book describes that process whereby Mexico was given diplomatic recognition by Britain. It examines the problems of diplomacy caused by difficulties in communications, and assesses the influence of Canning's pursuit of imperial interests.

Henry McKenzie Johnston is author of Ottoman and Persian Odysseys.