In March 1916, the Mexican revolutionary leader Pancho Villa orchestrated a daring raid on Columbus, New Mexico, with nearly 500 of his followers. The attack was part of Villa's broader strategy in response to U.S. support for his rivals during the Mexican Revolution. On the night of the raid, Villa's men stormed the sleepy border town, leading to significant destruction and the loss of American lives, including the deaths of several soldiers and civilians. The town was chosen due to its proximity to Villa's base of operations and a desire to send a message to the United States regarding its meddling in Mexican affairs. This aggressive action not only highlighted the tensions between Villa and the U.S. but also showcased his capability as a military leader.

The American government's response was swift and heavy-handed. Following the raid, President Woodrow Wilson ordered General John J. Pershing to lead a punitive expedition into Mexico with the intention of capturing Villa. This marked the beginning of a significant military incursion into Mexican territory, which lasted several months. While the mission did not succeed in capturing Villa, it strained U.S.-Mexico relations, led to increased military presence along the border, and further complicated the already turbulent context of the Mexican Revolution.

The raid had significant repercussions beyond the immediate violence. It solidified Villa's image as a formidable leader among his supporters, but it also drew the ire of the U.S. government and increased tensions between the two nations. The events catalyzed discussions about U.S. military involvement in Latin America and laid the groundwork for future American military actions in the region. This episode in the chaotic narrative of the Mexican Revolution underscored the complexities of national loyalties and foreign intervention, leaving a lasting impact on U.S.-Mexico relations.