1876-1911: In 1876, Porfirio Diaz leads a revolt against the Mexican government, and assumes the post of President. The Diaz regime, which dominates Mexican politics for the next thirty-five years, is known as the Porfiriato.

1910-1917: The Mexican Revolution deposes Diaz in 1911 and institutes the Constitution of 1917, which calls for many reforms.

1945-1981: During the post-World War II era, Mexico enjoys a period of political stability.

1994: A rebellion lead by the Zapatista National Liberation Army erupts in the south of Mexico; rebels demand increased social services for the Indian population of Mexico.

1936-1939: The Spanish Civil War is fought between the Republican government and the Nationalist rebels. The Nationalists win the war and place the military leader Francisco Franco as head of the country.

1939-1975: Franco rules as dictator of Spain from the end of the Civil War in 1939 until his death in 1975.

1975-2000: After...