Agustín de Iturbide was a Mexican military leader and politician who played a crucial role in Mexico's independence from Spanish rule. Born on September 27, 1783, he initially fought for the Spanish crown but later switched sides to support the independence movement. In 1821, he helped to negotiate the Plan of Iguala, which established the framework for Mexico's independence. After Mexico gained independence, Iturbide became the country's first emperor in 1822, adopting the title of Emperor Agustín I. His reign was short-lived, as he faced opposition and was forced to abdicate in 1823. He later went into exile and returned to Mexico in 1824, where he was executed.