Alejandro Lanusse

Alejandro Agustin Lanusse was born in Buenos Aires Argentina on August 28, 1918. Lanusse attended military college and graduated in 1938 after which he joined the Calvary. Lanusse was a military man by trade who rose to power in Argentina. After Juan Domingo Peron was exiled in 1955 a series of generals controlled Argentina. Lanusse was president of the Republic of Argentina from 1971-73. Lanusse passed away on August 26, 1996 in Buenos Aires Argentina.

Lanusse?s military career was head of the Regiment of Grenadiers, and ambassador in Santa Sede in 1956. From this Lanusse became the assistant director of the Superior military school in 1960. Later Lanusse became commander of the First Armored cavalry division.

To advance his career Lanusse took part in the overthrow of two Argentine presidents, Arturo Frondizi in 1962 and Arturo Umberto in 1966. Lanusse supported the general Juan Carlos Ongania to power in 1966. Lanusse came into power during the junta, while the military ran the country. In order to support the return of a constitutional regime Lanusse took the presidency in 1971. Lanusse reestablished ties to China during his years in office. Understanding that the military was improperly running the country, Lanusse called for the elections held in 1973, in which Hector Campora was voted as president. In the summons for elections Lanusse authorized the use of political parties again.

In 1951 Lanusse took part in a revolutionary attempt against Peron, which failed, landing him in jail until 1955. In an attempt to reduce violence from strikes, riots and terrorist activities, Lanusse used the idea of Peron to bring about popular views of the people. Lanusse brought back the corpse of Peron?s wife Eva Peron also known as Evita. Lanusse invited Peron to return form Spanish exile in 1972. In addition, Lanusse placed the bust of Peron and Eva Peron in the gallery of presidents at the government house.

Prior to his death Lanusse was questioned considering the Dirty Wars.