Why is the relationship between the US and Mexico strained?

Relations between the United States and Mexico, in spite of the two countries’ geographical proximity, are nothing but complex. While intimately linked, the negativity with which Mexico is regarded by American lawmakers and citizens has prevented the formation of a strong, bilateral alliance thus far. Shannon O’Neil, author of Two Nations Indivisible: Mexico, the United States, and the Road Ahead, analyzes the social, political, and economic dynamics at play between both countries, and evaluates prospective changes that could be made in the 21st century.

On changing immigration patterns in the United States:

On the prospects of a successful partnership between the United States and Mexico:

On the impact of Mexico’s emerging security issues:

On Mexican domestic politics and their influence on the United States: