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Benito Juarez
Benito Juarez becomes the president of Mexico. During that time, Mexico had been in financial ruin and were unable to pay debts to European governments. In great frustration, France, Britain, and Spain sent naval forces to Veracruz to demand reimbursements. -
The French Army Scores
The French army gains a victory over Mexican republicans at the Battle of Puebla. This event, unfortunately, let the French forces advance rapidly towards Mexico City. Napoleon III, ruler of France at the time, decided to use the opportunity to establish a Latin empire that would favor French interests. -
The Mexicans gang up
As the French headed to Mexico City with their 8,000- strong French army they began attacking the Mexicans 4,000-weak army. Yet, the Mexicans managed to attack the French army, killing close to 500 soldiers, and loosing less than 100 soldiers themselves. The French general Lorencez, decided to completely withdraw from the battle, letting the Mexicans take victory. -
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The Mexicans loose power
The Mexican's victory from the battle was short-lived. A full year after the battle, 30,000 French troops were able to depose the Mexican army and capture Mexico City. They then established Emperor Maximilian I, as the ruler of Mexico. But the French victory was also short-lived, and lasted only 3 years. The Americans were able to help finish out the French rein in Mexico, and allow for Mexican's to re-gain power. -
Zaragoza's withdraw
French general Zaragoza's victory at Puebla, built up Mexican resistance, and within six years France withdrew from their empire. later that year, Austrian Archduke Ferdinand Maximilian, who had been given the role as emperor of Mexico by Napoleon in1864, was then captured and executed by a firing squad. -
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The pride gained by the Mexicans
Through the winning of the French at Puebla, the Mexican's were able to gain and build up a string resistance, which is what later brought them towards winning. Because of that victory and small independence, Mexican's have been able to gain a strong pride for their country and gained a fun holiday through the battle. Cinco de Mayo is now celebrated with Americans and Mexicans and is celebrated through many different culture related traditions, but most importantly celebrates Mexico's victory -
