Ramon Villeda Morales

Villeda Morales was elected president as the candidate of the Liberal Party, winning a majority in the constituent assembly. His election marked a return to civilian rule after a period of military dictatorship and raised hopes for democratic reform.

Villeda Morales enacted a progressive Labor Code that established the right to unionize, collective bargaining, and an eight-hour workday. This reform was a key part of his liberal agenda but faced strong opposition from business elites and the military.

Villeda Morales was overthrown in a military coup led by Colonel Oswaldo L