Mexico began the fight for independence in 1810, but that was achieved only in 1821. In the end, when the nation succeeded in that goal, there was little agreement on what form of government the new nation would have. The landed classes mostly favored a continuation of the previous system with new leaders and rulers. Liberals, influenced by masonic ideas, were more interested in a republic and the new principles of liberty and enlightenment where people ruled themselves.

The eight month long First Mexican Empire was created in this atmosphere. The Mexican Congress chose Agustin de Iturbide, a general of the Independence War, as the new emperor, but Iturbide did not prove shrewd, flexible, or authoritarian enough to maintain himself in this role. After being dethroned, he was exiled to Europe. When he came back in 1824, he was first greeted in applause and cheers, then arrested and imprisoned. Finally he was executed by a firing squad.