Vicente Guerrero (1783-1831) was a hero of the Mexican fight for independence from Spain. The second president of the Mexican Republic, he was an ardent defender of Indian rights and a harsh opponent of social and economic inequalities in his country.

Vicente Guerrero lived during a crucial period of Mexican history. In the early 19th century the Spanish colony of New Spain was convulsed by Joseph Bonaparte's usurpation of the Spanish throne. Deep-seated rivalries between Spaniards and Creoles suddenly increased. Mobs of Indians led by Fathers Miguel Hidalgo and José María Morelos roamed through the countryside killing, looting, calling for independence, and demanding a place in a society dominated by a Spanish aristocracy. The role of the wealthy Church came under attack as did Spain's economic and political policies toward the colony.

Guerrero was born on Aug. 10, 1783, in the village of Tixtla. His parents were...