1876 - Start of the Porfiriato

In 1876, Porfirio Díaz came to power after opposing the reelection of Sebastián Lerdo de Tejada. This marked the beginning of the political era later known as the Porfiriato.

The Porfiriato brought modernization and economic growth, but also authoritarian rule, inequality, and repression. This date helps learners understand the background to the Mexican Revolution.

Porfirio Díaz led the Plan of Tuxtepec against Sebastián Lerdo de Tejada’s reelection. Porfirio Díaz promoted the Plan of La Noria against Benito Juárez’s reelection in 1871.