Historical Events tagged with "paraguay"

Turns out history loves a label—battles, breakthroughs, and the occasional disaster, all neatly tagged for your browsing pleasure. Because sometimes you just need every weird invention in one place.

Politics & Government

Fernando Lugo Impeached, Federico Franco Takes Office

June 22nd, 2012 12 years ago

Fernando Lugo was impeached by the Paraguayan Senate, ending his term as president. The rapid impeachment process came after a confrontation between landless farmers and police in which 17 people were killed. Federico Franco, Lugo's vice president, succeeded him amid claims of a hasty and politically motivated impeachment trial that sparked controversy in Paraguay and drew criticism internationally. The act polarized the nation and led to protests from Lugo's supporters.

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Accidents & Tragedies

Massive Supermarket Fire in Asunción, Paraguay

August 1st, 2004 20 years ago

A devastating fire broke out in a supermarket in Asunción, resulting in 396 deaths and injuries to 500 others. The blaze occurred during a busy shopping day and trapped many customers inside. Emergency services faced challenges in controlling the fire, exacerbated by the store's design. Victims were mostly shoppers and employees, and the tragedy highlighted severe safety and regulatory failures in public buildings.

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Politics & Government

Assassination of Vice President Luis María Argaña

March 23rd, 1999 25 years ago

Luis María Argaña, Paraguay's Vice President, was assassinated in a drive-by shooting. The attack occurred in Asunción, Paraguay, escalating political tensions in the country. His assassination shocked the nation and was part of a series of violent political events affecting Paraguay's governance during this period. Argaña had been a prominent figure in Paraguayan politics, increasing concerns about instability.

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Politics & Government

Mercosur Established by Four South American Nations

March 26th, 1991 33 years ago

Argentina, Brazil, Uruguay, and Paraguay signed the Treaty of Asunción, establishing Mercosur, a regional trade bloc aimed at promoting free trade and economic integration among its member countries. The signing took place in Asunción, Paraguay, highlighting a collective commitment to enhance economic cooperation and reduce trade barriers. This initiative was significant in fostering regional ties and improving economic stability in South America.

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Politics & Government

Military Coup Ends Alfredo Stroessner's Regime

February 3rd, 1989 36 years ago

Alfredo Stroessner, the long-time dictator of Paraguay, was overthrown by a military coup that marked the end of his 35-year rule. The coup was initiated by discontent within the military and the public against Stroessner's authoritarian regime, which was characterized by human rights abuses and corruption. The coup was led by General Andrés Rodríguez, who had previously been a loyal supporter of Stroessner, leading to surprise among many. The military took control of key government buildings and announced the new leadership within hours, bringing an immediate change in political direction and promising a transition to democracy.

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Politics & Government

Alfredo Stroessner's Dictatorship in Paraguay Begins

August 15th, 1954 70 years ago

Alfredo Stroessner seized power in Paraguay through a military coup, establishing a dictatorship that would last for several decades. Capitalizing on political instability, Stroessner led a successful coup against President Federico Chávez, taking control of the government and initiating a regime characterized by repression, censorship, and political terror. His regime was noted for promoting infrastructure development while stifling dissent, and it formed alliances with the United States amid the Cold War.

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Military & Warfare

Ceasefire Ends Hostilities in Chaco War

June 12th, 1935 89 years ago

A ceasefire was negotiated between Bolivia and Paraguay, concluding the Chaco War, a conflict marked by territorial disputes over the Gran Chaco region. The peace talks were facilitated by diplomatic channels and led to the signing of an agreement which halted military operations. This resolution ended nearly three years of strife which had seen significant loss of life and resources for both nations and allowed for the reestablishment of relations between the two countries.

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Military & Warfare

Truce Signaled Between Bolivia and Paraguay

June 10th, 1935 89 years ago

The Chaco War, escalating between Bolivia and Paraguay over territorial disputes in the Gran Chaco region, culminated in a truce called on June 10, 1935. After three years of intense conflict, marked by difficult conditions and high casualties, both nations recognized the need for peaceful resolution. Negotiations facilitated by mediators highlighted the overarching goal of stabilizing the region and avoiding further loss of life. The agreement set the groundwork for future diplomatic relations.

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Military & Warfare

Final Assault in the Battle of Boquerón

September 29th, 1932 92 years ago

The Battle of Boquerón concluded with Paraguay's decisive victory over Bolivia. This clash was part of the larger Chaco War, which saw both nations fighting for control over the contested Gran Chaco region. Paraguayan forces, under the command of General José Félix Estigarribia, successfully overwhelmed the Bolivian defenders, marking a significant shift in the war's momentum in Paraguay's favor. The battle resulted in heavy losses for Bolivia and established Paraguay as a key player in the ongoing conflict.

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