Vicente Fox

Vicente Fox Official Photo 2000 (Cropped)

Vicente Fox (cropped).jpg Fox in 2011

Vicente Fox Quesada (born July 2, 1942) is a Mexican businessman and politician who served as the 55th President of Mexico from December 1, 2000, to November 30, 2006. He was the first president elected from an opposition party since the Mexican Revolution, ending 71 years of continuous rule by the Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI).

Early Life and Education

Vicente Fox was born in Mexico City to a family of Spanish and Basque descent. He grew up on a ranch in Guanajuato, where he developed a strong connection to the land and agriculture. Fox attended the Universidad Iberoamericana, where he earned a degree in business administration. He later completed a diploma course at the Harvard Business School.

Business Career

Before entering politics, Fox had a successful career in business. He worked for the Coca-Cola Company in Mexico, eventually becoming the President of Coca-Cola Mexico. Under his leadership, Coca-Cola became the top-selling soft drink in Mexico, surpassing Pepsi.

Political Career

Governor of Guanajuato

Fox entered politics as a member of the National Action Party (PAN). He was elected Governor of Guanajuato in 1995, where he focused on economic development and reducing corruption.

Presidential Campaign

In 2000, Fox ran for president as the candidate of the PAN. His campaign was marked by promises of economic reform, anti-corruption measures, and improved relations with the United States. Fox won the election, defeating PRI candidate Francisco Labastida.

Presidency (2000-2006)

During his presidency, Fox implemented several key reforms. He worked to improve the Mexican economy, reduce poverty, and combat corruption. Fox also sought to strengthen Mexico's relationship with the United States, advocating for immigration reform and increased trade.

Economic Policies

Fox's administration focused on economic stability and growth. He promoted free trade agreements and foreign investment, which helped to modernize the Mexican economy. However, his efforts to pass significant tax and labor reforms were often blocked by the opposition-controlled Congress.

Social Policies

Fox's government implemented social programs aimed at reducing poverty and improving education. The "Oportunidades" program provided financial assistance to low-income families, contingent on their children attending school and receiving regular medical check-ups.

Foreign Policy

Fox sought to enhance Mexico's role on the international stage. He worked closely with the United States on issues such as immigration and trade, and he was a vocal advocate for the Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA).

Post-Presidency

After leaving office, Fox remained active in public life. He established the Vicente Fox Center of Studies, Library and Museum in San Francisco del Rincón, Guanajuato, which serves as a think tank and educational institution. Fox has also been involved in various business ventures and continues to speak on political and social issues.

Personal Life

Fox is married to Marta Sahagún, who served as the First Lady of Mexico during his presidency. He has four children from a previous marriage.

Legacy

Vicente Fox is remembered for breaking the PRI's long-standing hold on the Mexican presidency and for his efforts to modernize the Mexican economy. His presidency marked a significant shift in Mexican politics, paving the way for greater political pluralism.