What was the U.S. government's view of Pancho Villa prior to his attacks?

The U.S. government's view of Pancho Villa prior to his attacks was that he was viewed as a bandit and a threat to stability. This perspective stemmed from Villa's methods, which included violence and raids that disrupted both Mexican and border American lives. His actions, particularly his raid into the United States in 1916, were seen as justifications for this viewpoint, painting him more as a menace rather than a revolutionary hero or legitimate leader.

While Villa's role in the Mexican Revolution did garner some admiration, especially among those who supported the revolutionary cause, the U.S. administration maintained concerns about his methods and their implications for U.S.-Mexico relations. This made the perception of him as a threat to regional stability more pronounced, leading to military responses and diplomatic measures aimed at curtailing his influence and actions.