What caused the conflict that led to the battle of puebla?

The Battle of Puebla, fought on May 5, 1862, was primarily caused by Mexico's financial struggles and its inability to repay foreign debts to European nations. After President Benito Juárez suspended payments, France, Britain, and Spain intervened, but only France aimed to establish a monarchy in Mexico under Maximilian of Habsburg. The conflict escalated as Mexican forces, under General Ignacio Zaragoza, confronted the French, leading to a significant victory for Mexico despite being outnumbered. This battle became a symbol of Mexican resistance against foreign intervention.