Juárez and Zuloaga as rival presidents of Mexico

Background. The political landscape was shaped by the Constitution of 1857, which faced strong conservative opposition. President Comonfort sought to distance himself from these reforms, leading to instability. Juárez, as Chief Justice, was next in line for the presidency. Zuloaga, a conservative general, played a key role in the outbreak of conflict, eventually being elevated to the presidency amidst these tensions.

Rivalry. Juárez assumed the presidency in January 1858 after Comonfort left the country. Zuloaga, a conservative general, was elevated to the presidency during the outbreak of the Reform War. However, a moderate faction of conservatives overthrew Zuloaga in December 1858, hoping to compromise with Juárez. This internal conflict led to Zuloaga facing a pronunciamiento against himself in late 1858.

Transition. Zuloaga initially took back his resignation but agreed to pass the presidency to General Miramon on 31 January 1859. This transition occurred after a series of conservative victories and infighting. Miramon became the new conservative president in December 1858, following the overthrow of Zuloaga by moderate factions who sought compromise with the liberal government.