Porfirio Díaz was a Mexican general and politician who served as the President of Mexico for several terms between 1876 and 1911. He is known for modernizing the country, promoting economic growth, and improving infrastructure, such as railroads and telegraphs. However, his long rule was marked by authoritarianism, leading to social unrest and dissatisfaction among the people. His presidency ended with the outbreak of the Mexican Revolution in 1910, a major conflict that sought to address issues like land reform and political freedom. Díaz eventually resigned and went into exile, leaving a significant impact on Mexico's history and politics.