From 1926 - 1929 approximately 90,000 Mexicans died in a popular uprising known as the "Cristeros War".  The name "Cristeros" was applied to the rebels by the Mexican government, as they comprised Catholic clergy and laity who rejected the 1917 Mexican Constitution, which imposed a structure of anticlericalism designed to usher forth an atheist state.  Persecution fomented until 1926, when protest grew violent and the government began rounding up and executing priests and laity alike.  In 1929, U.S. diplomats intervened and brokered a peace that would largely end the persecution of Catholics and - although it did not restore ownership of property to the Church, the Church was given control and permission to live on those properties.

The Cristeros fought government troops who were dismantling the Mexican Church before their very eyes, while the government murdered dozens of holy men after show trials and plenty of trumped up charges.  The Knights of Columbus played an important role in bringing attention to the persecution, and at least nine of the canonized or beatified were K of C members. 

The war cry of the Cristeros, "Viva Cristo Rey!" ("Long live Christ the King") has become emblematic of the struggle to preserve the right to worship God and announce His kingship over the world; to stand resolute for the faith; to lay down one's life for the Truth Himself, Christ the King.  

The Feast Day of the Cristeros Martyrs is celebrated on May 21st.

The Canonized

The Beatified