Benito Juárez 1806–1872
One of Mexico's Greatest Presidents
Benito Juárez (HWAH rez) spent most of his life fighting for equality in Mexico. As a young man and then as president, Juárez worked in politics so he could bring democracy to Mexico's citizens.
Juárez was a Zapotec Indian. He was born in the town of Guelatao (gweh lah TAH oh), in southern Mexico. At the young age of 26, he was elected to city council. He became more aware of the injustices that many Mexicans faced and worked to make the laws more fair. As Minister of Justice, he was responsible for ending the law that gave special treatment to Mexicans who had wealth or power. Juárez also helped break up the large land estates held by ranch owners so that more Mexicans could own land.
Shortly after he became president, Juárez passed a law that guaranteed religious liberty to all Mexicans. While he was president, the French invaded Mexico. He defeated them and continued to promote democracy until his death in 1972. Today, Juárez is remembered for the many reforms he brought to Mexican government.
Critical Thinking
Why do you think democracy was important to Juárez?