What was once the pattern of Indian exploitation by the Spaniards is now the pattern of exploitation of the rural poor and urban slum dweller by the social/economic structure. Mexico is a country being confronted by many crisis situations. High unemployment, inflation, infant mortality and illiteracy leave many people unhealthy, homeless, cold and hungry.
Mexico's history has inspired many people to demand and work towards the health and well-being of the people. In 1810 in the state of Guanajuato, Father Miguel Hidalgo revolted against Spanish rule, and demanded racial equality and the giving of the land to poor peasants. By 1822, Mexico had finally achieved independence from Spain under the Emperor Agustan Iturbide. .
He was quickly followed by a succession of caudillos as well as the presence of General Santa Ana. Santa Ana dominated Mexican politics for about 30 years, and it was under his command that Mexico lost Texas, as well as losing the Mexican-American War.
By the 1850's, many foreign interests wanted to control Mexico, including European countries and the United States. France took advantage of the American Civil War to install Emperor Maximillian as a puppet on the throne in Mexico City. He was eventually defeated and executed by a group of liberal reformers, led by a native Oaxacan and Zapotec Indian named .
Benito Juarez.
Many Mexicans consider Juarez to be their greatest president. After Juarez's death, another Oaxacan, named Porfirio diaz ascended to the presidency of Mexico. He ruled the country as a dictator for over 30 years, until the Mexican Revolution in 1910.
The Mexican Revolution was the first great revolution of the 20th century. It sought to address the continuing problems of unequal land distribution, corruption, and the need for political reform. These reforms were most clearly voiced by Pancho Villa and Emiliano Zapata.
The Mexican Revolution was a bitter and bloody time for all of Mexico.