The History of the Mexican Revolution and Civil War

Miacademy & MiaPrep Learning Channel

This educational video provides a comprehensive overview of the Mexican Revolution, tracing its origins from the dictatorship of Porfirio Díaz through the chaotic civil war and concluding with the establishment of the PRI's long-standing political dominance. It explores the complex web of alliances and betrayals among key figures like Francisco Madero, Pancho Villa, Emiliano Zapata, Venustiano Carranza, and Álvaro Obregón, explaining how their conflicting visions for Mexico led to a decade of bloodshed and political upheaval. The content highlights key historical themes such as the struggle for land reform, the tension between foreign investment and national sovereignty, and the difficulty of transitioning from military revolution to stable governance. It specifically breaks down the significance of the Constitution of 1917, detailing its progressive reforms regarding labor rights, education, and land ownership, while noting the gap between these written ideals and their actual enforcement during the period. For educators, this video serves as an excellent anchor for World History or Latin American Studies units. It helps students navigate the confusing timeline of the revolution by breaking it into distinct phases: the initial overthrow of Díaz, the counter-revolution against Madero, the civil war between revolutionary factions, and the eventual institutionalization of the revolution. The video uses guiding questions and pause points to encourage critical thinking about the definition of a successful revolution and the costs of political stability.