Establishment of the Second Federal Republic of Mexico

On August 22, 1846, the Second Federal Republic of Mexico was established, marking a significant shift in the nation’s political landscape. This transition followed the fall of the Centralist Republic of Mexico, which had replaced the First Mexican Republic. The re-establishment of federalism was a response to political instability and widespread dissatisfaction with centralist policies.

Context and Background

• First Mexican Republic (1824-1835): The First Mexican Republic was a federal republic established after Mexico gained independence from Spain. However, it was plagued by internal conflicts and economic challenges.

• Centralist Republic (1835-1846): In 1835, the Centralist Republic replaced the federal system with a more centralized government. This period was marked by authoritarian rule and the loss of Texas, which declared independence in 1836.

• Political Instability: The centralist government faced numerous uprisings and opposition from federalists who favored a return to a decentralized system. The Santa Anna regime, in particular, was unpopular due to its dictatorial tendencies and military failures.

Key Events Leading to the Establishment

• U.S.-Mexican War (1846-1848): The outbreak of war with the United States in April 1846 exacerbated Mexico’s internal divisions. The war highlighted the weaknesses of the centralist government and fueled calls for reform.

• Federalist Revolts: Throughout the 1840s, various regions in Mexico experienced revolts against the centralist government, demanding a return to federalism.

• Political Change: In August 1846, President José Mariano Salas, who had assumed power after a coup against the centralist regime, called for the re-establishment of the federal system. This decision was formalized on August 22, 1846.

Aftermath and Consequences

• Federal Constitution of 1824 Restored: The re-establishment of the federal republic involved the restoration of the 1824 Constitution, which had been suspended under centralist rule.

• Continued Instability: Despite the change, Mexico continued to face political instability. The U.S.-Mexican War ended with the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848, resulting in significant territorial losses for Mexico.

• Legacy: The Second Federal Republic set the stage for future political developments in Mexico, including the Reform War (1857-1861) and the eventual establishment of the Mexican Republic under Benito Juárez.

The re-establishment of the Second Federal Republic was a pivotal moment in Mexican history, reflecting the ongoing struggle between centralist and federalist forces and the broader challenges of nation-building in the 19th century.