José Gaspar Rodríguez de Francia

World Leader

Birthday January 6, 1766

Birth Sign Capricorn

Birthplace Paraguay

DEATH DATE Sep 20, 1840 (74)

#207,746 Most Popular

About

He was one of the first leaders of Paraguay after it became independent from Spain, serving twice once for a year, and once for 26 years.

Before Fame

He was a philosophy professor before becoming a political leader.

Trivia

He became sole consul of Paraguay in 1814, which gave him absolute power and was then, two years later, given absolute control for the rest of his life.

Family Life

He did not believe that Spaniards should marry each other, so it was banned; but he did have at least seven illegitimate children.

Associated With

His nephew, Carlos Antonio López became the first President of Paraguay, as did Carlos's son, Francisco.

José Gaspar Rodríguez de Francia Is A Member Of