Well, everywhere on earth was a hell-hole in 1824, by our standards. I mean, was the White House air-conditioned in 1824?
No question, the English colonies in America, Australia, Canada, and elsewhere, have enjoyed a level of liberty and prosperity unmatched by any colonies of Spain, Portugal, or France that I can think of.
So?
No, Mexico was always a hell hole, it is still a hell hole.