Juarez, Margarita (1826–1871)

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Juarez, Margarita (1826–1871)

First lady of Mexico. Born Margarita Mazas, Mar 29, 1826, in Oaxaca, Mexico; died Jan 2, 1871 in Mexico City, Mexico; dau. of Antonio Maza and Petra Parada; m. Benito Juarez (1806–1872, 4-term president of Mexico, 1861–72), July 1843; children: 12.

Followed husband on the run with her 8 children (eventually had 12); fully supported his federalist efforts against the French and the dictator Santa Anna; while living in exile in NY and Washington DC (1863–67), was important in negotiations with US government; with the revenue cutter Wilderness placed at her disposal by President Andrew Johnson, was reunited with husband at Veracruz (July 14, 1867).