The process of establishing a functional State is neither simple nor easy. Historical episodes may
highlight the violent beginnings of current states, but they also help us recognize the inherent complexities in jumpstarting one. The building of the Mexican State was achieved by contingencies that arose out of the Conquest, by which Spanish and Native Conquistadores gained power and assured their right to self-governance vis a vis a central government. Emily talks to us about the challenges to build a State in this context.