Chapter 8 Section 1 MEXICO Struggle toward Democracy

Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna Mexican general, president and leader of Mexican independence from Spain. Was leader that ordered attack on Americans at the Alamo

Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna Had a fake leg that was captured by Americans during the Mexican- American War. Leg is now in Springfield, IL.

War and Reform After gaining independence in 1821, the Mexican people had no experience in governing themselves. This led to much conflict during the early years of Mexico.

Causes of the Mexican War Mexico encouraged Americans to settle in their northern territories, today Texas. Settlers had to follow Mexican Law and pay taxes to Mexico. The settlers revolted.

Outcome of the Mexican War Despite early victories, Mexico eventually surrendered and Santa Anna signed a treaty granting Texas independence. In 1845 Texas was annexed, or added, to the United States.

Mexican-American War Mexico and the U.S. could not agree on where the border should be between them. By 1846 the dispute led to war that lasted two years.

Mexican-American War Despite strong forces, Mexico could not defeat America’s extremely well trained military leaders.

Mexican-American War Mexico surrender in 1848 signing a treaty including a cession, or surrendered territory, which included what is today California, Arizona, Nevada, and New Mexico.

Fight for reform The wars drained Mexico’s economy and afterwards two groups fought for control. Conservatives: rich landowners and military leaders Liberals: poor, landless people

Benito Juarez Liberal leader who called for a new constitution. Later served as president of Mexico.

Constitution of 1857 In 1857 a new constitution was written that included freedom of speech and called for a federal system of government, system with several different levels.

European invasion 1861 The struggles in Mexico left them vulnerable to attack. In 1861, France, Spain, and Britain sent forces to Mexico. France captured Mexico City, but the Mexican people quickly overthrew them.

Revolution and Constitutional change (who came to power?) After the death of Juarez in 1876, struggle for power again broke out. Porfirio Diaz became dictator and gave power only to those that supported him. The gap between rich and poor grew.

The Mexican Revolution Farmers wanted land and workers wanted better wages. In 1910, Mexicans began to call for Diaz to leave.

Emiliano Zapata Led an army in southern Mexico and fought for land ownership for poor farmers.

Pancho Villa Led an army in northern Mexico and became famous for stealing from the rich and giving to the poor.

Constitution of 1917 Still in effect today, it redistributed land to the poor people of Mexico. Also gave the government control of natural resources and gave Mexican workers more rights.

Democratic Rule The Institutional Revolutionary Party was in control of Mexico from 1929 to In 2000, Vicente Fox, of the National Action Party was elected president and signaled Mexico’s move to a multiparty democracy.

Democratic Rule Mexico has 31 states and three branches of government.

Pancho Villa