The worsening of relations between a declining America and an internally troubled Mexico could even give rise to a particularly ominous phenomenon: the emergence, as a major issue in nationalistically aroused Mexican politics, of territorial claims justified by history and ignited by cross-border incidents.

In this quote, Zbigniew Brzezinski, a prominent political scientist and former national security advisor, is warning about the potential consequences of worsening relations between a declining America and a troubled Mexico. Brzezinski suggests that if tensions between the two countries escalate, particularly due to internal struggles in Mexico or cross-border incidents, there could be a dangerous resurgence of territorial claims rooted in historical conflicts. This would be a nationalist movement in Mexico, where leaders might use the country's historical grievances to justify territorial disputes, potentially destabilizing relations further.

Brzezinski's reference to a declining America likely alludes to a period when the U.S. might face internal challenges, such as economic difficulties or political instability, weakening its position on the global stage. On the other hand, Mexico, grappling with its own internal troubles, could see an opportunity to revive historical claims, especially with the cultural and emotional ties that many Mexicans have to territories once part of Mexico, such as Texas and California, which were lost to the U.S. in the Mexican-American War.

The quote implies that nationalistic politics in Mexico could fuel a dangerous rhetoric, stirring public sentiment and making territorial disputes a major issue. If these historical claims were invoked by Mexican political leaders, it could ignite tensions and even lead to confrontations, with both countries re-examining historical grievances and competing for national pride and sovereignty.

The origin of this quote is from Zbigniew Brzezinski, who often analyzed the geopolitical dynamics of the Americas and global politics. As an advisor to President Jimmy Carter, Brzezinski was particularly focused on the strategic relations between the U.S., Latin America, and global superpowers. His insight into the relationship between America and Mexico reflects his understanding of how national identity and historical narratives can influence modern-day politics, potentially leading to destabilizing consequences if not carefully managed.