The Mexican Revolution was an anti-imperialist, decade-long struggle for land and freedom. Everything started due to the people’s extreme dissatisfaction with the dictator Diaz. During the ten years of the revolution, Mexico’s political reforms seemed particularly significant. The most prominent and obvious one will be the overthrow of the dictator Diaz. From 1876 to 1911, the indigenous people of Mexico experienced forced labor and decimation of their ancient way of life. Nevertheless, only at the very start of the revolution, Diaz faced the ultimate downfall and was assassinated soon as his duly punishment. Furthermore, one of the changes that makes me very happy is the rise of women’s rights and status during the war. The legalization of women’s right to dissolve their unsatisfied marriage, to own properties, and the right to fight alongside men in war. The revolution ushered in an era where women were no longer limited in the previous gender role of being dutiful wives and mothers confined to the kitchen; But became independent individuals who could go to war and protect their homes and countries. From then on, women could embrace their independence like men, and pursue their own life they want to live, regardless of the social constraints.
While the Mexican Revolution brought countless political and social transformations in Mexico, the entrenched socioeconomic divisions and systemic inequalities yet remained a challenge as always. Even after the revolution, more than 50 percent of Mexico’s farmland was still controlled by 2.9 percent of landowners by the 1970s, despite astute revolutionary leaders such as Emiliano Zapata advocating for land redistribution. In addition, ethnic civil strife often occurred in Mexico during the last century. Similar to the end of the twentieth century, the Zapatista National Liberation Army (EZLN) launched an armed uprising in the southern state of Chiapas. The ultimate cause of civil strife in Mexico was always due to the country’s incompletion of political, economic, and social systems. This ultimately outlines the decade-long revolution’s failure to adequately address the economic grievances of Mexico’s indigenous populations.
Hola! My name is Vittoria and I am one of the soldiers in Mexico. I originated from a privileged elite family who kept Porfirio Diaz in the presidency. You are more than welcome to read my journal. Gracias!