Influential Latin Americans Throughout History

The end of Spanish rule in Mexico, in the 19th century

, gave rise to the birth of a prolific range of interesting artists, politicians and military leaders. The influence that they had on Mexico is still in evidence today, with their personalities and interests ranging from the religious, to the obsessed, or even the criminal. Following is a short biography of five of some of the most notable personalities of Mexican history.

Benito Juarez (1806-1872) Known as Mexico's Abraham Lincoln, Juarez was president from the 1858 to 1872. He served during a period in Mexico's history earmarked by massive unrest and social upheaval; religion was the basis for the liberal and conservative hostilities toward each other in Mexico - the conservatives believed that the church should stand side by side with the government; the liberals were against vehemently opposed to this notion. Juarez also had to contend with foreign interests who were undermining Mexico; as well the nation was still reeling from the loss of much of its territory to the US. While Juarez was a Zapotec Indian whose first language was not Spanish, he nevertheless led Mexico with a steely resolve and a clear, uncorrupted vision.

Porfirio Diaz (1830-1915) President of Mexico from 1876-1911, Diaz is one of the most well-known and recognized historical figures from Mexico's past. He ruled with such tenacity and force of will that it was not until the revolution that he was finally unseated. His reign as president is epitomized by his policies that divided the rich from the poor; he pandered to the already wealthy by making them even wealthier, the poor became poorer and grew in numbers. The overreaching side effect of this class separation was that Mexico became regarded as a developed nation on the world stage, joining the ranks of many other nations with similar class disparity.

Maximillian (1832-1867) - Emperor of Mexico Despite some inspired efforts, Mexico was still in turmoil after attempting rule with powers ranging from the liberals, conservatives, a dictator and an emperor - nothing had proven to have any kind of long term stability, vision or success for the still young nation experiencing growing pains via political upheaval and social unrest. It was actually France that stepped in and suggested that, perhaps, Mexico might try a more European style system of rule - a monarchy. With this in mind, Maximillian of Austria, was given the power of a regent. He was ousted from office, then executed, partly due to his inability to stop the conservatives and liberals from constantly warring with each other.

Francisco Madero (1873-1910) Toward the end of Porfirio Diaz's reign as President, it was decided that an election was finally in order. Diaz didn't really believe that any of his opposition had a chance; the election was meant more to placate the citizens and create the illusion of choice amongst the people. Madero was a man of the people with genuine ideals and popularity to match. Plans for an election were rescinded once Diaz comprehended that he would likely lose to Madero. Diaz wanted Madero arrested. Madero came back to Mexico (from the USA) to work with Francisco "Pancho" Villa, as a revolutionary leader. Diaz was ousted and Madero ruled from 1911 to 1913.

Agustin de Iturbide (1783-1824) wanted to join the army, even at a young age, although he was born into privilege and had other options available to him. His family's wealth and influence ensured his ability to focus on honing and developing his skills and ideals. He joined the army at a very young age, determined to inspire, lead and enact change. His natural leadership and compelling personality assisted his rise through the ranks in the army. He fought against insurgents during the war of independence, but in 1820 he changed allegiances and began fighting for independence. When the Spanish were defeated, Iturbide was named Emperor. His rule was short lived as infighting between the different factions in Mexico created an atmosphere of constant instability and his power was undermined. He was exiled in 1823, returned a year later and was eventually captured and executed.

by: Robert Nickel

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