Information Compiled By Spencer Bicknell Mexico Information Compiled By Spencer Bicknell

Background Overview Each year more and more people are killed by wars between the Drug Cartels in Mexico, 2010 totaling over 11,000 people. It is estimated that 90% of the cocaine in the United States comes through Mexico. Most of the cocaine routed through Mexico is produced in the South American country of Colombia.

Firearms Mexicans have firearms available to them legally but due to the process being difficult most are smuggled from the United States. Most AK-47 and AR-15 semi automatic rifles come from the United States while full automatic weapons are less common and smuggled from elsewhere. There is only one legal gun shop in all of Mexico.

More Firearms Top: Actual M15 seized from Drug Cartel. Notice US Flag on strap. Bottom: AK-47 example.

Fighting On right: darker red areas have more conflicts. 9 out of 10 victims in crimes are members of organized crime, such as drug cartels

Political Vs Practical Sending 1,800 troops to a border of over 2,000 miles. Enforcing the war on drugs in Mexico when the US demand is high for drugs. Practical Sending at least 4,000 troops in order to better maintain the border. Spending money on drug rehabilitation programs to cut US demand.

Legalization of Drugs Positive Less need for smuggling Drug Cartels have less power Price goes down Less casualties Negative More drug use Price goes down More US produced drugs

Bibliography http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mexican_Drug_ War http://projects.latimes.com/mexico-drug- war/#/its-a-war