Decena Trágica

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Soldiers during the Decena trágica

The Decena trágica (The 10 Tragic Days) encompasses a series of events that took place in Mexico City from February 9 to February 19, 1913 as part of the Mexican Revolution . They culminated in the assassinations of President Francisco Madero and his Vice-President, José María Pino Suárez .

Starting position

The long-time president General Porfirio Díaz had fled into exile in Europe in May 1911. After Franzisco I. Madero took over the office of president, he continued to maintain contact with supporters of the ousted president. He wanted to maintain economic and social stability and not deter foreign investors. Likewise, he continued to rely on the administration and the army of the Porfirat. As a result, he lost the support of some revolutionaries, such as Emiliano Zapata , who had the impression that Madero did not identify sufficiently with the poor population groups.

procedure

The uprising against the Madero government began in Mexico City when a group of armed men, including cadets from the military school, under the command of General Manuel Mondragón, liberated Generals Bernardo Reyes and Félix Díaz. It was supported by the circles that longed for the old relationships of rule to be restored. The rebels attacked some government buildings, including the National Palace, and declared a state of emergency. The occupation of the National Palace failed, but the putschists were able to entrench themselves in the army's ammunition depot, La Ciudadela. Madero appointed General Victoriano Huerta to commander the government troops in the capital and tasked him with suppressing the uprising. A ten-day street fight ensued, which is estimated to have killed over 5,000 people. Including numerous uninvolved civilians.

General Huerta, who was initially loyal to Madero, changed sides and took power on February 19. Foreign forces, especially the US Ambassador Henry L. Wilson, were also involved in the preparation of the coup.

The coup ended with General Huerta's illegitimate seizure of power and the capture and assassination of President Madero and Vice-President, José María Pino Suárez.

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