[steve-b]

The Crusades, in contrast, were essentially defensive wars, intended to drive back the Muslims from Byzantium and the Holy Land, which they had conquered by force.

By this reasoning, a reconquista of the US Southwest is essentially defensive.

No, the relevant issue is that Christendom has marginalized and suppressed the violent elements it once harbored, while Islam has yet to emulate that progress.

[arthurus]

By this reasoning, a reconquista of the US Southwest is essentially defensive

From the point of view of the Mexicans that could well be correct. However there is in Islamic expansion no hint of reconquista.

[jpl]

By this reasoning, a reconquista of the US Southwest is essentially defensive.

Wrong. The Mexican-American War was initiated by the Mexicans after the Texans started getting fed up with the Mexican government reneging on their promises. They made the mistake of firing at our soldiers, and we kicked their ass.