Agustín de Iturbide, who had played a crucial role in Mexico's independence from Spain, declared himself Emperor in 1822 after a tumultuous political environment followed the transition from colonial rule. Upon establishing the Mexican Empire, Iturbide encountered significant resistance from the newly formed Congress, which represented various political factions and interests within the empire. Frustrated with the Congress's limited support and growing opposition to his imperial authority, Iturbide saw an opportunity to reassert his dominance by attempting to dissolve this legislative body. The Congress had faced challenges from various factions, including republicans and loyalists, and their debates often favored a more democratic governance structure, which Iturbide had no interest in permitting.

The events leading up to the attempted dissolution were marked by political intrigue and instability. Iturbide's reign was characterized by conflicting visions of governance, wherein he sought to maintain power through authoritarian measures, while Congress advocated for broader representation of diverse interests. Iturbide's declaration to dissolve Congress reverberated through the political landscape, increasing tensions further. Opposition leaders rallied to protect the institution, arguing that such a move would undermine the very foundation of the empire's future. This clash was not merely a personal power struggle but symbolic of the broader conflicts within Mexican society, where factions vied for control in the wake of independence.

The atmosphere was electric, with political alliances shifting swiftly as supporters of both Congress and Iturbide mobilized. Ultimately, Iturbide’s decision to dissolve the Congress exemplified the fragility of the young empire, revealing the deep-rooted divisions and the challenges of establishing a stable governance framework. This confrontation set the stage for future power struggles and highlighted the inherent tensions between monarchy and republican ideals in Mexico’s early post-colonial history. Addressing the legitimacy of Iturbide's rule, the struggle escalated past mere legislative authority into overarching questions of national identity and governance that would resonate for years to come.