Famous Mexican Revolutionaries

Emiliano Zapata Salazar was a Mexican revolutionary who became a prominent leader in the Mexican Revolution of 1910–1920. He led the people's revolution in Morelos and inspired the agrarian movement known as Zapatismo. Zapata organized the Liberation Army of the South and played a key role in the fall of dictator Porfirio Díaz. He promulgated the Plan de Ayala, advocating for land reforms for peasants. Despite facing opposition, Zapata continued his fight for social justice until his assassination in 1919.

Benito Juárez was a Mexican politician, military commander, lawyer, and statesman who served as the 26th president of Mexico. He was the first and only indigenous president of Mexico and the first democratically elected indigenous president in the postcolonial Americas. Juárez held various federal posts including Secretary of the Interior, Secretary of Public Education, and President of the Supreme Court. During his presidency, he led the Liberals to victory in the Reform War and the Second French intervention in Mexico.

Francisco Ignacio Madero González was a Mexican businessman, revolutionary, writer, and statesman. He served as the 37th president of Mexico from 1911 until he was deposed in a coup d'état in February 1913 and assassinated. Madero was known for advocating democracy and opposing the authoritarian regime of Porfirio Díaz. He played a key role in starting the Mexican Revolution to oust Díaz and bring about social justice and democracy in Mexico.

Pancho Villa was a Mexican revolutionary and general who played a significant role in the Mexican Revolution. He was a key figure in the movement that ousted President Porfirio Díaz and helped bring Francisco I. Madero to power. Villa later joined the Constitutionalist Army led by Venustiano Carranza but eventually broke away. He formed alliances with Emiliano Zapata and other revolutionary generals, advocating for land reform. Despite his popularity, Villa faced defeat in battles against Carranza's forces and the U.S. military. He negotiated an amnesty deal in 1920 but was later assassinated. Villa's image as a revolutionary hero persisted posthumously.

Adolfo de la Huerta was a Mexican politician who served as the 45th President of Mexico following the overthrow of President Venustiano Carranza. He played a significant role in the Mexican Revolution and was considered an important figure among Constitutionalists. He worked closely with Sonoran generals Alvaro Obregón and Plutarco Elías Calles under the Plan of Agua Prieta. Throughout his professional life, de la Huerta contributed to Mexican politics and governance, leaving a lasting impact on the country's history.

Subcomandante Marcos, a Mexican insurgent and former military leader of the Zapatista Army of National Liberation, is known for his anti-capitalist and anti-neoliberal stance. He earned a degree in Philosophy and Literature and taught at a university before becoming involved with the National Liberation Forces guerrilla group. Marcos emerged as the military leader of the EZLN, leading the group's rebellion in 1994 and transitioning to a public relations role after peace negotiations. He is a prolific writer, known for his anti-capitalist and pro-indigenous rights writings, as well as poetry and fiction.

Eufemio Zapata Salazar was an active participant in the Mexican Revolution, fighting alongside his brother Emiliano Zapata. He was known for his role as a military leader, commanding forces and engaging in various battles during the revolutionary period. Eufemio Zapata played a significant role in organizing and leading movements aimed at challenging the government and advocating for agrarian reform. His strategic military tactics and leadership skills contributed to the revolutionary efforts in Mexico during that time.

Ricardo Flores Magón was a Mexican anarchist and social reform activist who played a significant role in the social movement leading to the Mexican Revolution. Alongside his brothers Enrique and Jesús, he formed a group of followers known as Magonistas. Flores Magón's professional life was characterized by his commitment to advocating for social change and challenging the existing political system in Mexico. Through his writings and activism, he inspired many to push for a more equitable and just society.

Pascual Orozco Vázquez, Jr. was a Mexican revolutionary leader who supported Francisco I. Madero in deposing President Porfirio Díaz. Orozco's victory over the Federal Army at Ciudad Juárez was crucial in forcing Díaz to resign. He later served as leader of the state militia in Chihuahua under Madero. However, Orozco revolted against the Madero government and joined Victoriano Huerta's regime following Madero's assassination. This move tarnished his revolutionary reputation, as his actions were viewed unfavorably by many.

José María Morelos was a Mexican Catholic priest, statesman, and military leader who played a crucial role in the Mexican War of Independence. He joined the insurgency led by Miguel Hidalgo and quickly rose to prominence, leading successful campaigns against Spanish rule in southern and central New Spain. Morelos wrote influential documents outlining his vision for an independent Mexico and established the Congress of Anáhuac. Despite his capture and execution by royalist forces, Morelos is revered as a national hero for his leadership and contributions to the independence movement.