Benito Juarez: Hero

On 21 March Mexicans honor the birthday of Benito Juarez, the 26th president of Mexico and national hero.  Juarez served as president from 1858 until his death in 1872.  Born in Oaxaca, he was the first indigenous president of Mexico.

During Juarez’s presidency the Mexican army defeated much larger French forces near Puebla.  The date?   Cinco de mayo!

Though Juarez was born on the 21st, the day off for the national holiday will be 15 March 2021.

General Zaragoza’s Mexican army outside repels French forces during the Battle of Puebla on May 5, 1862. Painting by Patricio Ramos Ortega. National History Museum, Mexico City

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