The Porfiriato: Mexico Under Diaz

The Porfiriato

• Porfirio Diaz ruled Mexico for a significant period (a third of a century), during a time of great change in the westen world.
• The period was marked by innovation in technology, politics, economics, and art.
• Diaz's Mexico was notable even in a world of profound change.

Mexico in 1876

• Mexico was largely untouched by the industrial revolution in 1876, except in major cities.
• Western Europe and the United States underwent transformations in the 50 years leading up to then.
• Mexico experienced political instability and economic losses.
• Diaz inherited an empty treasury, outstanding debts, and underpaid government employees.
• Mexico's international credit rating was poor.
• Imports exceeded exports, creating a balance of payments issue, inhibiting foreign investment.
• Affluent Mexicans were hesitant to invest due to political instability.

Order and Progress Under Diaz

• Diaz aimed to change Mexico's image and establish stability to attract investors.
• Diaz's main goal was to create order and progress in Mexico.
• He sought to create stability in order for foreign investors to invest in Mexico, to promote manufacturing, mining, and agriculture.
• Diaz established the rule of law to ensure stability.
• He had a background in law and the army.
• Diaz sought to remove the stigma associated with previous Mexican politics.
• Diaz reduced his own salary and the salaries of other government employees.
• Diaz tackled smuggling to improve import and export duties
• Diaz opened new consulates along the Texan border to promote legal trade with the United States.

The Gonzalez Presidency

• The González presidency was controversial.
• Revenues rose but expenses increased.
• Railroad improvements were made, but costs were high.
• Government debt increased.
• Accusations of corruption and mismanagement emerged in the press.

Foundations of Modernization

• Renewed focus on political stability and economic development.
• Modern technology (steam, electric power) replaced traditional methods.
• New infrastructure (telephone, telegraphs) were implemented.
• Public health improved with sanitation initiatives and fighting yellow fever.
• Modern drainage systems were introduced.
• Improvement in the country's infrastructure and modernization efforts
• Major improvements in cities and towns.
• Development of transportation (railroads)
• Building of new public works like theaters, libraries, ports, hospitals, and prisons.
• Significant improvement in public administration and public services.
• Mexico's image improved on the world stage..

The Revival of Mining

• Diaz's government introduced new mining codes and updated mining tax laws.
• A new code was introduced to appeal to foreign investors.
• Foreign investment (especially from the US and Europe) increased due to updated mining codes and tax laws
• Large mining developments were initiated.
• New mining techniques and machinery led to a surge in production.
• Foreign investors owned and controlled many mines, such as those in northern Mexico.

Oil Fields and Other Industrial Enterprises

• Increased competition between American and British investors in Mexico's oil industry.
• Major drilling efforts commenced in Mexico.
• Significant capital investment by foreign interests.
• Development of industrial enterprises (steel, beer, textiles).
• Growth of industrial production in Mexico, specifically in Monterrey.
• Vast improvement in ports to allow for international trade.
• Significant increase in trade in Mexico from 1876 to 1910.

Explore the significant period of the Porfiriato, when Porfirio Diaz ruled Mexico and aimed for modernization amidst political and economic challenges. This quiz covers Mexico's state in 1876 and Diaz's efforts to establish order and progress. Delve into the innovations that characterized this transformative era.