The Battle of Puebla, on May 5, 1862, is one of the most important historical events in Mexico.
During the history of Mexico there were several battles and wars that contributed to the formation of the country as we know it, among them we can mention the War of Independence, the Mexican Revolution, the War of Reform and many others, but the Battle of Puebla has transcended the borders of its neighboring country, the United States, becoming a national holiday in the country.
Foreigners have the mistaken belief that the Battle of Puebla commemorates the Independence of Mexico and very few know its historical importance, that is why we share five facts that you might not know about this event.
ALMOST 6 HOURS OF COMBAT
According to historians, the Battle of Puebla took place on May 5, 1862, near midday. It ended around 5 in the afternoon.
PATRIOTISM > POLITICAL IDEOLOGY
Conservative General Miguel Negrete put aside his ideology to join the forces of Ignacio Zaragoza. It is said that when questioned by this decision the military said: I have homeland before party.
MOTIVATIONAL SPEECHES
General Ignacio Zaragoza, commanded by the Army of the East, gave a speech on the morning of May 5, 1862 and to encourage the troops before the fight he pronounced this phrase: Our enemies are the first soldiers in the world, but you are the first Children of Mexico Soldiers: I read victory on your forehead. Some historians believe that he did not predict victory in that final sentence, but rather said and they want to take away our country.
The Mexican army won this battle, however, the French requested reinforcements from Napoleon III and carried out a successful counterattack, which eventually led to the establishment of the Second Mexican Empire, marked by the arrival of Emperor Maximilian of Habsburg in 1864. The French did not leave territory Mexican until 1867.
PRESIDENT IN EXILE
Benito Juárez, the president of Mexico at that time, had to establish the Mexican government in the north of the country, in the city of Paso del Norte, due to the Second French Intervention. Paso del Norte named after Ciudad Juárez by decree of Porfirio Díaz, president of Mexico seven times, in honor of Benito Juárez.
