Modern Mexican History: Juárez and Reforms

The Restored Republic: Nascent Modernization

• Modern Mexican history begins with the liberal victory of 1867, marking the beginning of the republic.
• Juárez and his republican colleagues aimed to consolidate their victory by implementing the 1857 Constitution and modernizing Mexico.
• The Mexican political process showed signs of maturation, but scars remained from the Reform and intervention wars.
• Mexicans struggled with suspicion about differing opinions and ideologies, often leading to disputes.
• Juárez returned to Mexico City in 1867, in a simple black coach, in contrast to Maximilian's lavish entry in 1864.
• Juárez sought a third term in office, which was considered excessive by some.
• His first two terms were largely spent on the run.
• Juárez implemented important political and economic reforms.

Juárez's Third Term

• Juárez's return was triumphant, with significant public support.
• He recognized the need for consolidation and called for presidential elections, running for a third term.
• Some thought a third term was excessive given the previous administrations' challenges.
• Juárez reformed the country, tackling the deep-seated tension between factions.
• He reduced the size of the Mexican army from 60,000 to 20,000.

Economic and Educational Reforms

• Juárez appointed Matías Romero as Secretary of the Treasury, who devised a plan to revitalize the Mexican economy through improved transportation, the exploitation of natural resources, attracting foreign capital, and improving the mining industry.
• The plan emphasized reform of the tax and tariff systems.
• The new administration focused on revamping the economy, especially the mining industry, and improving educational foundations.
• Juarez created the Rurales to improve public security and order.
• The completion of the Mexico City-Veracruz railroad was a major economic development during the restoration.

Further details on the Restoration

• The railroad project faced engineering challenges and financial difficulties.
• The completion of the railroad project in 1872 greatly improved transportation and communication in Mexico.
• Juárez's new administration sought to further education and improve relations with foreign countries.
• Education improvements were focused on mathematics, natural sciences, and primary education.
• Primary education was made free and compulsory for the first time, with a significant expansion of schools.
• The development of the educational system aimed at providing more opportunities for all levels of society.
• Juárez made progress in mending relations with neighboring countries and other nations.

Division among Liberals

• Juárez's third term was highly contested, causing divisions within the liberal party itself.
• Notable competitors like Porfirio Díaz and Sebastián Lerdo de Tejada challenged his candidacy.
• The outcome of the election was controversial, and the political process remained volatile.
• The division among liberals and the death of Juárez ultimately paved the way for Porfirio Díaz's rise to power.

Lerdo's Presidency

• Lerdo, the new President, focused on establishing peace through firm executive control at both local and national levels. He intervened militarily in various situations.
• Lerdo continued some of the reforms initiated during Juárez's administration, including efforts to improve public infrastructure (such as railroads and telegraph lines.)
• Lerdo's administration was beset by political opposition and criticisms.
• A revolt, led by Díaz, challenged Lerdo's rule and eventually led to Díaz's victory, marking the end of an era of liberal governance.

Education during the Restoration

• Lerdo's administration continued improving education, boosting funds from both the federal and local levels to construct new schools.
• This period saw a general increase in construction to further expand primary schools, although enrollment growth was slower.

Explore the pivotal events of modern Mexican history, focusing on the restoration of the republic after Juárez's victory in 1867. Discover how Juárez and his colleagues implemented the 1857 Constitution and the political maturation of Mexico amidst ongoing disputes and reforms. This quiz delves into Juárez's leadership, his pursuit of a third term, and the impact of his policies.