Duke of Bacalar
The Duke of Bacalar (Spanish: Duque de Bacalar de la Victoria) is a title in the Mejican nobility, established in 1870 following the decisive military victory of General Miguel Miramón over the Mayan rebels of the theocratic state of Chan Santa Cruz. This victory effectively brought an end to the Yucatán Caste War, also known as the Yucatec Crusade, and solidified the region's proper integration into the Mejican Empire. The title is hereditary, passing through the male line of the Miramón family, and it carries significant political and economic influence within the region.
The Duchy of Bacalar was created as part of King Agustín II's broader strategy to stabilize and develop the Yucatán Peninsula following a period of intense conflict. General Miramón, known as the Young Maccabee and of Liberal Insurgency fame, was granted the title for his military success and loyalty to the Mejican monarchy. Miramón was awarded extensive lands and privileges, effectively establishing Bacalar as an autonomous entity within Mejico. His governance set the foundation for the subsequent growth of the region under his descendants.
Known for their agricultural properties, their monopoly over the production of xtabentún, and their involvement in various sectors, including construction and rail, the Dukes of Bacalar have greatly influenced the development of the region. The Miramón family, one of the most important families in the country transformed Bacalar into a vital economic hub within the Mejican Empire. Their extensive haciendas produce not only traditional crops such as maize and henequen, but also specialize in tropical fruit and exotic spices; their monopoly over the production of the traditional Mayan alcoholic beverage xtabentún, made from the fermented nectar of bees fed with the xtabentún flower, solidified the financial standing of the Duchy. The development projects of the Riviera Maya and the tourist locations in Cancún, Cozumel, Isla Mujeres, and Isla Contoy greatly impacted the Duchy economically. The region has grown to become one of the premier tourist destinations in the world.
The Dukes of Bacalar have maintained a positive relationship with the Mejican monarchy for most of their history. Miguel Miramón Lombardo, II Duke of Bacalar, even married Luisa Amalia, the third daughter of King Agustín III. This marriage solidified the alliance between the ducal family and the monarchy, reminiscent of the marriage of Agustín I and María Carlota - a Mejican generalissimo marrying into the royal family. The current holder of the title is Miguel Miramón de la Peña, IX Duke of Bacalar, and one of the most powerful dukes in the country.