
Mexican president who led liberal reforms and resisted French intervention.
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Juarez issued the Laws of the Reforma from Veracruz, separating church and state, nationalizing church property, and establishing civil marriage. These laws aimed to reduce the Catholic Church's political and economic power in Mexico.
Mexican forces under General Ignacio Zaragoza, supported by Juarez's government, defeated the French army at Puebla. Though a tactical victory, it delayed the French invasion and became a symbol of Mexican resistance.
After the fall of Emperor Maximilian I, Juarez returned to Mexico City and restored the republican government. He ordered the execution of Maximilian and conservative generals, consolidating liberal rule.
Juarez ran for re-election against Porfirio Diaz and others, winning amid allegations of fraud. Diaz launched the Plan de la Noria rebellion, claiming the election was rigged, leading to a brief civil conflict.
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