Who was Benito Juarez?

BENITO Juarez paved the way for Mexico’s democratic federal republic and helped the country’s modernization in the 19th century.

He fought to reform the government until his death, which eventually made him a national hero.

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Benito Juarez was Mexico’s presidentCredit: Getty Who was Benito Juarez?

Born March 21, 1806, Benito Juarez was known as a Mexican liberal politician and lawyer.

He famously served as the 26th president of Mexico from 1858 until his death in 1872.

At the time, he made history as Mexico’s first president of indigenous origin and helped shape the country into what we know today.

He first took office after conservative forces sent Mexico’s previous president into exile and were then elected president in 1861 and twice reelected, according to his Britannica bio.

Despite his popularity, Juarez lost support later on in his career after he suggested changing the constitution.

Today, Juarez is remembered for transforming his ideas into a reality, which eventually helped the country overcome the prevalent social attitudes toward his indigenous background.

Before his career, he obtained his education from the Oaxaca Institute of Arts and Sciences, which was later renamed the Benito Juárez Autonomous University of Oaxaca in his honor.

Was Benito Juarez married?

Before his death, Juarez was married to Margarita Maza.

The two first tied to knot in 1843 and were together until she died in 1871.

Maza was famously known as the Former First Lady of Mexico and held the position until her death when she passed away from cancer.

Throughout their marriage, the couple welcomed 14 children together.

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Benito Juarez was president from 1858 to 1972Credit: Getty What was Benito Juarez’s cause of death?

Juarez passed away on July 18, 1872, while still serving his country in Mexico City.

His cause of death was later determined to be a massive heart attack.

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