Era of Unrest

Revolution

Between 1821 and 1835 Mexico was in a constant state of war and revolution. During these 14 years there were 8 rebellions and or coup d'etat. During this time Mexico had gone from a Empire to two different Republics then to a dictatorship under Santa Ana. Many were wondering if Mexico could even survive on it's own. As one British newspaper writer wrote: "If a country has had more revelations than the French in much less the time, can it even be considered a country?"

The unrest began almost immediately after gaining independence from Spain. The Empire of Mexico only lasted one year before rebels deposed the Emperor and created the First Federal Republic of Mexico. Then one year later in 1824 the constitution was changed and Mexico became federated republic known as the United States of Mexico. The first election of the United States of Mexico was disputed. Within one year Anastasio Bustamante led a coup against President Vicente Guerrero. During the coup President Guerrero was found dead.       Bustamante at first stated Guerrero committed suicide. However those loyal to Guerrero claimed he was shot by firing squad. This debate would last several decades and never fully be answered. Bustamante would become president until he was replaced by Santa Ana. Bustamante would close the borders to Europe and United States in an attempt to stop unrest in the Northern Territories. He also started a secrete police to hunt down rebels and political opponents which made many uneasy. In 1832 Santa Anna would come to the presidency though he wouldn't stay for long in Mexico City. Instead he retired to his estate in Veracruz leaving his vice-president in charge. After several liberal reforms Santa Anna returned to Mexico City and undead all the reforms of his vice president. He also abolished both congress and the constitution. This would cause several rebellion's throughout Mexico.