North America 1914: Occupation of Veracruz

In 1913 General Huerta had seized power in Mexico in a bloody coup, much to the dislike of the US government (although with the unauthorized backing of the US ambassador). When Mexican forces temporarily arrested some US sailors at Tampico a year later, the US disregarded a Mexican apology and retaliated by occupying the major port of Veracruz until Huerta had been overthrown.

Main Events

9 Apr 1914 Tampico Affair

Mexican forces loyal to General Huerta temporarily detained US sailors, triggering a breakdown in US-Mexican relations.in wikipedia

21 Apr–23 Nov 1914 US occupation of Veracruz

The United States seized and occupied the Mexican port of Veracruz in response to the Tampico Affair.in wikipedia

28 Jul 1914 Outbreak of World War I

The Austro-Hungarian Empire declared war on the Kingdom of Serbia, in response to Serbia’s rejection of Austria-Hungary’s July Ultimatum. In the following days, Russia, Germany, France, and Britain all entered the conflict, resulting in the First World War.in wikipedia

15 Aug 1914 Panama Canal opens

After a seven-year construction, at the cost of about $375 million and the death of some 5,600 workers, the Panama Canal was formally opened. The Panama Railway steamship SS Ancon making the first official transit. Large celebrations which had been planned for the canal’s opening were canceled due to the outbreak of World War I, making the opening into a modest local affair.in wikipedia

20 Aug 1914 Carranza enters Mexico City

Venustiano Carranza arrived in Mexico City to assume office as president.in wikipedia