This book investigates the cyclical nature of Mexican labor migration to North America and its underlying social and economic structures. Mize and Swords examine how corporations, consumers, and states have historically managed the flow of Mexican immigrant laborers, encouraging their presence during labor shortages and discouraging it during economic downturns. The authors analyze the social relations that shape this dynamic, from the Bracero Program to NAFTA, highlighting the integral role of Mexican immigrants in the North American economy.

The book addresses the contentious issue of Mexican migration, framing it not as a novel problem but as a recurring pattern in North American history. It highlights how Mexican laborers have been strategically utilized and then displaced based on economic conditions. The analysis focuses on the complex interplay between corporations, consumers, and state policies in shaping these migration dynamics. This work provides a comprehensive view of the significant and evolving contribution of Mexican immigrants to the North American economic landscape.