Alfredo Stroessner was a Paraguayan military officer and politician who ruled as the President of Paraguay from 1954 to 1989. He came to power through a coup d'état and established a dictatorial regime known for human rights abuses and corruption. Stroessner's rule was characterized by repression of political opponents, censorship, and the concentration of power in his hands. His government was supported by the military and he maintained control through patronage networks and a pervasive security apparatus.