Benito Juárez: Mexican President Overview

What was the significant outcome of Benito Juárez's leadership during the Reform War?

Which law was Benito Juárez instrumental in passing during his political career?

What role did Benito Juárez take on after the resignation of Ignacio Comonfort?

What was a major challenge Juárez faced during his presidency?

Which indigenous community does Benito Juárez belong to?

At what age did Benito Juárez move to Oaxaca City for work?

What education path did Benito Juárez initially pursue before switching to law?

Which political party was Benito Juárez affiliated with during his career?

Benito Juárez: Mexican President

Benito Juárez (1806-1872), a Zapotec Indigenous Mexican, was the 26th President of Mexico.
He was the first Indigenous president and first democratically elected Indigenous president in the post-colonial Americas.
Juárez was a lawyer, politician, and military leader.
Part of the Liberal Party.

Early Life and Career

Born in Oaxaca to a poor, rural Indigenous family.
Orphaned young, cared for by an uncle.
Worked as a servant in Oaxaca City.
Studied to be a priest, then switched to law at the Institute of Sciences and Arts.
Became involved in liberal politics.
Became a judge and married Margarita Maza.

Rise to National Politics

Elected Governor of Oaxaca.
Became involved in national politics after Antonio López de Santa Anna's removal.
Appointed Minister of Justice under Juan Álvarez.
Key role in the "La Reforma" constitutional reforms (including the Juárez Law).
Became President after Ignacio Comonfort's resignation during the Reform War.
Led the Liberal Party to victory in the Reform War.

Presidency and Challenges

Faced the Second French Intervention in Mexico, aimed at establishing a French-backed monarchy.
Fought against the French and the Conservative Party.
Forced to flee to the north of Mexico.
The Second Mexican Empire collapsed in 1867 with the French withdrawal, allowing him to return to Mexico City.
Continued as president until his death in 1872, although facing growing opposition from within the Liberal Party.

Explore the life and achievements of Benito Juárez, the first Indigenous president of Mexico. Discover his early life, career rise, and key contributions to Mexican politics, particularly the 'La Reforma' reforms. This quiz covers significant milestones in his leadership and legacy.