Plutarco Elías Calles was born on September 25, 1877, in Guaymas, Sonora, into a modest family. His early life was marked by challenges. Calles worked various jobs before entering politics. His military career began during the Mexican Revolution, where he aligned with revolutionary leaders like Álvaro Obregón. This period of service helped shape his political philosophy, grounded in nationalism and social reform, which would later define his presidency.
Presidency and Economic Development of Plutarco Elías Calles
Calles assumed the presidency of Mexico in 1924, following the presidency of Obregón. His term was marked by an ambitious modernization agenda aimed at stabilizing Mexico after the tumult of the revolution. One of his most notable achievements was his focus on economic development, with efforts to reduce Mexico’s reliance on foreign capital, particularly in the oil industry. He established the Banco de México in 1925, modernized infrastructure, and encouraged agricultural reform through the redistribution of land, fulfilling revolutionary promises.
However, Calles’ presidency was also characterized by religious conflict, most notably the Cristero War, a violent rebellion triggered by his anti-clerical policies. His firm stance against the Catholic Church led to harsh enforcement of secular laws, intensifying the divide between the government and religious groups.
The 1925 Election and the Maximato
After completing his term in 1928, Calles remained a dominant political force, orchestrating the election of three puppet presidents during the period known as the Maximato (1928–1934). Despite officially stepping down, Calles continued to wield significant power behind the scenes, controlling Mexican politics through his political influence and relationships with other key figures. This era cemented his role as the “Jefe Máximo” (the Maximum Chief) of Mexican politics, though it also sowed the seeds for eventual political unrest.
Post- Presidency, Death, and Legacy of Plutarco Elías Calles
After his grip on power waned with the rise of Lázaro Cárdenas, who eventually exiled him in 1936, Calles retired from political life. He spent his final years in the United States and later Mexico, where he died on October 19, 1945. His legacy remains mixed: while he played a central role in Mexico’s modernization and institutional development, his authoritarian approach and religious policies left a lasting impact on the country’s social fabric.
Commemoration on the Mexico 100,000 Pesos Banknote
Plutarco Elías Calles is honored on the Mexico 100,000 Pesos Banknote, which commemorates his contributions to the nation. The obverse displays a portrait of Calles alongside the Banco de Mexico building in Mexico City, representing his political significance and the enduring legacy of the post-revolutionary era. On the reverse, imagery of Sonora’s iconic organ pipe cacti, a mountain and lake, and the head of a desert mule deer reflect the natural beauty and progress achieved under his leadership, symbolizing Mexico’s modernization and reforms. This banknote serves as a tribute to his enduring legacy on the country’s economy and politics.
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