Independent M�xico

The Modern period began with the War of Independence (1810-1821). The priest Miguel Hidalgo initiated a revolt against the Spanish rule on the 16th of September, 1810. This date is M�xico's National Day.

In 1821 the first independent government was established and in 1822 Agust�n de Iturbide was proclaimed Emperor of M�xico.

In 1824, the Congress adopted a Constitution instituting a Federal Republic under the first President of M�xico, Guadalupe Victoria. During his government England and the United States of America recognised the country's independence, noble titles and slavery were abolished, and different measures were taken to develop a more democratic society. In 1827 the first treaty of friendship and trade was signed between M�xico and the Kingdom of Denmark.

In 1836 Texas declared its independence from Mexico, provoking a war between M�xico and the United States. In 1847 M�xico was defeated and lost half of its original territory: the states which are presently known as California, Arizona, New Mexico and Texas.

In 1859 president Benito Ju�rez issued the Laws of Reform which established the separation of the Church and the State.

In 1862 the French Emperor Napoleon III intervened militarily in M�xico: an empire was established from 1864 to 1867, under the Austrian prince Maximilian of Hapsburg.

On the 5th of May 1862, General Ignacio Zaragoza, named Major General of the Army by the government of Ju�rez, obtained victory in the Battle of Puebla against the French.

In 1867 Benito Ju�rez re-established the Republic, and while in power died in 1872.

In 1887 one of Benito Ju�rez's generals, Porfirio D�az became President. He was reelected in 1864 and remained in power until 1911 when he was taken from power due to the Revolution which initiated in 1910.