Both were preseidents of México, but they had contrasting ideologies.
Benito Juarez was president of Mexico in the 1850's. He wanted a constitutional government and attacked the privilges of the Church and the army. He also opposed the restoration of a monarchy under Maximillian. Eventually, Juarez overthrew the conservative regime and Mexico was introduced to La Reforma, where power was transferred from the elite to a democratic republic of Mexican citizens. The capital city of Oaxaca is Oaxaca de Juarez. I do not know if this name is taken from Benito Juarez or not.
Porfirio Diaz helped to destro Juarez's plans. Diaz ruled from 1876-1910. The elites under Diaz's rule prospered while the masses suffered. Diaz, in fact, surrounded himself with an elite of intellectuals and large landowners.
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