why did the national colonization law did not allow foreign settlers to settle on or near boundaries and coastlines

The National Colonization Law of 1824 in Mexico, also known as the Law of August 18, 1824, did not allow foreign settlers to settle on or near boundaries and coastlines for several reasons:

1. National Security: Mexico was concerned about the security of its borders, particularly in the aftermath of gaining independence from Spain. Allowing foreign settlers to establish communities near the boundaries could have raised concerns about potential conflicts, infiltration, or disputes over territory.
2. Protection of Resources: Coastal and border areas were often seen as strategically important for economic and military reasons. By restricting foreign settlement in these areas, Mexico aimed to maintain control over valuable resources, including ports and trade routes, and prevent foreign interests from directly influencing or exploiting these regions.
3. Sovereignty Concerns: The Mexican government sought to assert its sovereignty over the newly independent nation. Allowing foreign settlers to establish communities along the borders or coastlines might have been perceived as a potential challenge to Mexican authority and control over its own territory.
4. Prevention of Encroachment: By limiting foreign settlement near boundaries, Mexico aimed to prevent encroachment on its territory by neighboring nations. This was particularly relevant given the geopolitical landscape of the time, with potential territorial disputes and competition for land.
5. Cultural and Political Considerations: The Mexican government may have been concerned about the potential influence of foreign settlers on the cultural and political dynamics of the nation. Concentrating settlement in specific areas might have been a way to maintain a cohesive national identity and prevent the fragmentation of the country.

Overall, the National Colonization Law of 1824 was shaped by a combination of geopolitical, economic, and nationalistic considerations, and the restrictions on foreign settlers near boundaries and coastlines were designed to safeguard Mexican interests and sovereignty.