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Visualize It

How can maps and diagrams help you analyze events?

Map of Puebla Battle

One thing missing from our analysis so far is a look at any maps or images that could help us visualize what happened at the battle of Puebla. (While paintings and maps are usually secondary sources, they can reveal critical details that fill in gaps in our analysis.) This map of Puebla shows the terrain of the battle and the placement of defensive forts. The lines surrounding Fort Loreto and Fort Guadalupe on this map show that they both occupy the high ground north of the city, and that any invaders would have to cross a trench between them.

When the French Army first attacked Puebla in May of 1862, they did so from the north and were defeated. During the Second Battle of Puebla in March of 1863, the French Army attacked from all sides and managed to take the city. Looking at this map, can you see why it might have been a mistake to attack Puebla from the north?

Question

Why was it a mistake for the French forces to attack from the north?

The city of Puebla was heavily defended from the north, as shown by the two forts on hills protecting the city. However, the French Army was so overconfident that they ignored warnings about attacking from that direction, and it cost them the battle.

This painting depicts the battle of Puebla, with the French soldiers in red and the Mexican Army on horseback. You can see the city on the hill on the upper left of the painting. Click on the painting to enlarge it and answer the following questions: What do you notice about the condition of the French Army? What about the Mexican soldiers? What weapons is each side using? How accurate do you think this portrayal is? What mood is the artist trying to create?

Question

What mood or tone is the artist trying to create with his painting?

The artist wants to show how a small group of brave Mexican fighters overcame so many opponents. You can see the hills in the distance covered with fallen French soldiers, while a handful of Mexican fighters on horseback cut through them. This adds a heroic, victorious mood to the image.