Siglo XX en México

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The speaker discusses the transformation of Mexico in the 20th century, highlighting historical events and ideologies that shaped the country's trajectory.

Mexico in the 20th Century

• Despite progress during the Porfirio Diaz era, Mexico needed to keep up with global changes. The application of French ideology like positivism did not yield expected results.

• Population estimates during Porfirio Diaz's rule ranged from 10 to 15 million due to limited census tools. Contrasted with today's population of around 130 million, showing significant growth.

• The Flores Magon brothers criticized Porfirio Diaz's regime, leading to persecution. They founded Regeneración and later formed the Partido Liberal Mexicano in 1906.

Ideologies and Political Shifts

• The Flores Magon brothers' program emphasized banning child labor, educating children aged 6-15, fair wages for women, and reducing work hours—a pivotal document for understanding the Mexican Revolution.

• Discussion on labor conditions under Porfirio Diaz's rule highlighted long working hours for jornaleros (day laborers), setting the stage for political debates on workers' rights.

• Influence of anarcho-syndicalism from the US on Flores Magon brothers' ideas marked a shift towards advocating for labor rights in Mexico.

New Section

This segment delves into Francisco Madero's role and impact on Mexican politics during his time, shedding light on his background and contributions to democracy.

Francisco Madero: Catalyst for Change

• Francisco Madero emerged as a key figure challenging Porfirio Diaz's regime. His mystical beliefs and unique characteristics added depth to his persona beyond conventional narratives.

• Madero's spiritual inclinations earned him the moniker "the mystic of democracy," showcasing a different facet of his personality often overlooked in historical accounts.

• With ambitions to contest the presidency, Madero penned "La Sucesión Presidencial en 1910," outlining national issues and laying groundwork for his political campaign.

Political Campaign and Support

• Madero embarked on an extensive political campaign between 1908 and 1910 across Mexico, promoting democratic ideals that resonated with many citizens.

The Mexican Revolution: Key Events and Figures

This section delves into the events leading up to the Mexican Revolution, focusing on key figures like Porfirio Díaz and Francisco Madero, as well as pivotal moments such as the Plan of San Luis Potosí and the Pact of the Empacadora.

Porfirio Díaz's Response to Madero's Popularity

• Porfirio Díaz realizes Madero is a strong contender for the presidency in 1910.

• Days before the election, Díaz orders Madero's arrest in San Luis Potosí.

• Madero escapes and drafts the influential Plan of San Luis Potosí from his prison cell.

Outbreak of Armed Uprisings

• Madero calls for armed uprising in his Plan of San Luis Potosí on November 20 at 6 pm.

• Initial uprising does not occur on that day but unfolds in subsequent days.

• The pressure intensifies, leading to the Pact of the Empacadora in Ciudad Juárez in 1911.

Resignation of Porfirio Díaz and Rise of Madero

• In Ciudad Juárez, Porfirio Díaz agrees to resign from the presidency.

• A year after being elected, Díaz resigns and goes into exile in France where he eventually passes away.

• New elections are called, resulting in Francisco Madero becoming president.

Challenges Faced by President Madero

This section explores Francisco Madero's presidency, including his disagreements with Emiliano Zapata over agrarian reforms and external influences impacting his rule.

Agrarian Reform Dispute with Emiliano Zapata

• Emiliano Zapata urges Madero to implement agrarian reforms returning land to indigenous communities.

• Madero hesitates on this decision, leading to a rift between him and Zapata.

• The first major rupture within the revolution occurs between these two figures.

External Influences on Madero's Presidency

• The United States indirectly supports Porfirio Díaz over Francisco Madero due to perceived benefits under Diaz's regime.

• Henry Lane Wilson, US ambassador to Mexico, collaborates with Victoriano Huerta against Madero.

• This collaboration leads to a coup d'état known as "La Decena Trágica" (The Ten Tragic Days).

Victoriano Huerta's Seizure of Power

This section details Victoriano Huerta's illegal assumption of power following Francisco Madero's overthrow during "La Decena Trágica."

La Decena Trágica: Coup Against President Madero

• Military forces capture and subsequently execute President Francisco Madero and Vice President José María Pino Suárez outside Palacio de Lecumberri on February 22, 1913.