Perhaps the Swedish-French partnership at work here failed to do a little bit of research into the Mexican American War before making this advertising campaign? If they had done a little bit of research they would know that this ad is patently offensive to their biggest importer. What's next, will they create a special German version of this advertisement where all of Europe and parts of Asia and Africa are all under the controlling power of Germany? Would that also be part of an "Absolut World"? Somehow I think not.
Absolut is clearly trying to gain the favor of the Mexican market with this advertising campaign but they screwed up by allowing the campaign to be found out about by those of us who live north of the border.
Take some time to read about the history of the Mexican American War and you may be surprised to learn a few things:
- Texas was a bit of an Australia for Mexicans. It was garrisoned by Mexicans who were given the choice of "join the army (in Texas) or go to jail".
- Texas succeeded from Mexico in 1836 and signed a treaty with Santa Anna after defeating his forces. This treaty was never ratified by Mexico.
- After gaining its independence the Republic of Texas began signing treaties with other foreign powers and also became interested in annexation by the USA.
- After the war Mexico was paid $15,000,000 for the land awarded to the USA under the terms of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo. The USA also took on the burden of $3.25 million in debts that the Mexican government owed to U.S. citizens.
- A final territorial adjustment between Mexico and the United States was made by the Gadsden Purchase in 1853.
Trying to make a buck off of the growing problems in the South-Western US is a bad move by Absolut. This may be forgotten in a few months but some people will forever change their vodka buying habits over this.