Jose Gaspar Rodriguez de Francia

Francia was appointed Supreme Dictator of Paraguay by a congress, consolidating absolute power. He established a regime of total isolation, banning foreign trade and travel, and suppressing internal opposition to maintain Paraguayan independence from Argentina and Brazil.

Francia ordered the complete closure of Paraguay's land and river borders, cutting off all external trade and communication. This policy, enforced for decades, aimed to protect Paraguay from foreign influence but led to economic stagnation and self-sufficiency.

Francia confiscated all property of the Catholic Church in Paraguay, including land and buildings, and placed the clergy under state control. He also suppressed religious orders and executed several priests who opposed his rule.

Francia died of natural causes in Asunci