Benito Pablo Juarez Garcia (March 21, 1806-July 18, 1872) was a Zapotec Amerindian who served five terms as president of Mexico. Benito Jua˘rez was the first Mexican leader who did not have a military background, and also the first full-blooded indigenous national to serve as President of Mexico and to lead a country in the Western Hemisphere in over 300 years. For resisting the French occupation, overthrowing the Empire, and restoring the Republic, as well as for his efforts to modernize the country, Juarez is often regarded as one of Mexico's greatest and most beloved leaders. Several towns, schools, parks, streets and monuments have been named to honor and remember him. As with many historic figures, some of his achievements and clean image are more myth than reality. During his presidency, Juarez was also known for refusing to leave power, manipulating election results and moving against political enemies. In fact, Juarez managed to hold to power for 14 years, second only to Porfirio Diaz. Ironically, many of the military battles that allowed Juarez to remain in power and win his reputation as a historical figure, were actually won by Diaz himself who is today vilified by Mexican history.