Rafael Franco

Rafael de la Cruz Franco Ojeda (October 22, 1896 – September 16, 1973) was a Paraguayan military officer, politician and statesman who served as President of Paraguay after the February Revolution, from February 20, 1936, to August 13, 1937. He was the historical leader and founder of the National Revolutionary Party (Revolutionary Febrerista Party since 1951).

Under his presidency, he implemented Paraguay's first major land reform (the confiscation, and breaking up, of some large private land holdings) and introduced a number of pro-labor reforms.

Early life and education

Franco was born in Asunción on October 22, 1896, At the end of the war, Franco participated in the Victory Parade as commander of the Second Corps, where the Asunción crowd received him in the streets with acclamation. In 1933, he was promoted to the rank of colonel; on his initiative, Fort Mariscal López and Fort Falcón were built. and Colonel Franco returned to Paraguay as interim president. Minister of War and Navy: Juan Stefanich and Col. Arístides Rivas Ortellado

His health had been deteriorating in his late 70s. In the last years of his life, he lived in a small room that was originally a garage located in the streets of Herrera. From there, he sometimes walked to a cafe that was located on the Avenue. There he met with old friends and comrades with whom he talked of politics and on military and social issues.

In September 1973, Franco entered the Hospital Americano because of his serious condition and did not come out alive. He was visited by Colonel Arturo Bray, with whom he maintained an enmity over 30 years. Colonel Rafael Franco died on September 16, 1973. One of the largest flower wreaths were sent by Arturo Bray. The inscription read: "To a great patriot."