born March 21, 1806, San Pablo Guelatao, Oaxaca, Mex.
died July 18, 1872, Mexico City
National hero and president (186172) of Mexico.
A Zapotec Indian, Juárez initially studied for the priesthood but later took a law degree and became a legislator, a judge, and a cabinet minister. He led La Reforma , and in 1855, when liberal forces took control of the national government, he was able to put his ideas into practice. An 1856 land reform law broke up large landed estates and forced the Roman Catholic church to sell its land. In 1857 a liberal constitution was promulgated. Conservatives ousted the president in 1858, but Juárez succeeded in restoring the liberal government. He was elected president in 1861 and twice reelected. The French under Napoleon III invaded and occupied Mexico, putting Maximilian of Austria in power, but, when Napoleon withdrew his troops, Juárez again prevailed, and he had Maximilian executed. His final years were marred by a loss of popular support and by personal tragedy. He died in office.
Benito Juárez.
Library of Congress, Washington, D.C.