Maximilian I (1832-1867), Emperor of Mexico from 1864-1867, qualifies as one of the country?s most ill-fated rulers. Hailing from a european dynasty, Maximilian was duped into accepting the role of Mexico?s emperor. Brought to the country under false pretenses, the archduke of Austria was led to believe his presence would be welcome by the people of Mexico. In fact, the opposite was true.
Mexico was experiencing the painful residues of a civil war (The War of the Reform) when Maximilian arrived in Veracruz in 1864. Mexico?s president, Benito Juarez, supported wide sweeping reforms for the country. This deeply angered the conservatives and the church who sought to maintain the status quo.
Maximilian, Emperor of Mexico
In 1861, President Juarez suspended interest payments to Britain, Spain and France. Juarez took this drastic measure out of necessity to help stabilize the country?s infrastructure. This decision, however, set off a chain of events that ultimately culminated with Maximilian?s arrival.
In response to President Juarez? decision, Napoleon III of France persuaded Britain and Spain to join forces with his country and demand repayment from Mexico. The Treaty of London was signed in 1861 for this purpose. However, France had ulterior motives that went beyond the settling of a debt. Napoleon III sought to take advantage of Mexico?s instability by establishing a monarchy in the country.
