The civil war, commonly known as the War of the Reform, that engulfs Mexico between 1858 and 1861 brings to light the underlying conflicts that have been present in Mexican society since independence.

The conservative faction launches the Plan of Tacubaya and, with the support of the military and the clergy, dissolves congress and arrests Juárez.

Juárez escapes and establishes a "government in exile" in Queretaro (the liberals later move their capital to Veracruz).

The initial military advantage is held by the conservatives, who are better armed and have plentiful supplies, but by 1860 the situation is reversed.

The final battle takes place just before Christmas 1860.

The victorious liberal army enters Mexico City on January 1, 1861.