In late 1910, Abraham González, revolutionary leader in Chihuahua, reached out to Francisco Villa, inviting him to join the movement. González’s goal was to recruit people experienced with weapons, brave, and familiar with the terrain where battles would unfold.

Villa quickly proved himself as a brilliant military strategist. Due to his early successes, Madero granted him the rank of colonel. Villa then formed his own army and played a decisive role in the Revolution’s success. Born in Durango as José Doroteo Arango Arámbula, he became known as Pancho Villa.

This gallery offers a closer look at this complex and iconic figure—celebrated by some as a hero, condemned by others as a villain. His name became a symbol, a rallying cry, and an inspiration for social struggles in Mexico and beyond.