San Juan de Ulua ou Relation de l'Expedition Francaise au Mexique. Suivi de notes et documents et d'un apercu general sur l'etat actuel de Texas

Blanchard, P. and A. Dauzats

Published by Gide, Paris, 1839

About this Item

Large (royal) 8vo, pp xii, 591. With 18 full-page engraved plates on India paper out of text, and 34 woodcut vignettes in text, done by the authors themselves. [Palau 30412:Sabin 5832] The major contemporary source for the War of the Pastry Chefs 1838 - 39. French citizens residing in Mexico (a notable number of whom as it happened were pastry makers / patissiers, hence the name) had recourse to their government to pursue their claims for indemnification for damages in the struggles that preceded this date. The Mexican government did not recognize these claims, or wanted to arbitrate them, which was unacceptable to the French and so they sent a squadron to reinforce their claims. Boats of the Mexican navy were impounded, and Vera Cruz (San Juan Ulua being the fortress at the entry to the harbor) seized. An English squadron was at the time in Vera Cruz also, and a Mr. Pakenham offered to mediate, which was accepted by both sides, and treaties eventually signed. In addition, the book contains the first French report on Texas (pp 522 - 572), which was quite favorable and was perhaps responsible for settlement thence, as well as early French recognition of Texan independence. This copy is in its original binding, decorative half calf over marbled boards. The decorations on the spine, stamped in gilt, are quite nice. There is some foxing throughout, but not excessive. Very nice copy of this scarce title. Seller Inventory # 6339

Bibliographic Details

Title: San Juan de Ulua ou Relation de l'Expedition...

Publisher: Gide, Paris

Publication Date: 1839

Binding: Hardcover

Signed: Signed by Author(s)

Edition: First edition.