Gnassingbe Eyadema vs Manuel Avila Camacho

Eyadema led a military coup that overthrew President Nicolas Grunitzky, establishing himself as head of state. He was then 32 years old, becoming one of Africa's youngest leaders at the time.

Eyadema established the Rally of the Togolese People as the sole legal party, creating a one-party state. He suppressed political opposition, controlled the media, and ruled with an iron fist for decades.

Eyadema survived an assassination attempt when his plane was attacked by a group of Togolese exiles. The attack failed, and Eyadema used it to consolidate power and crack down on opposition.

Under pressure from pro-democracy movements and international donors, Eyadema allowed multiparty elections. However, he manipulated the process to retain power, winning disputed elections in 1993, 1998, 2003, and 2005.

Eyadema died of a heart attack on February 5, 2005, after 38 years in power. His death ended one of Africa's longest-serving presidencies. He was succeeded by his son, Faure Gnassingb

Ávila Camacho assumed the presidency in 1940 and led Mexico through World War II. He shifted Mexico from neutrality to active support for the Allies, declaring war on the Axis powers in 1942 after German submarine attacks on Mexican ships.

Ávila Camacho strengthened ties with the United States through economic agreements and military cooperation. This included settling oil expropriation disputes and allowing U.S. military bases on Mexican soil, which bolstered the Allied war effort.

Ávila Camacho signed the law creating the Mexican Social Security Institute (IMSS), providing healthcare and pensions to workers. This institution became a cornerstone of Mexico's welfare state and social policy.