Alfredo Stroessner assumes dictatorial powers in
1954, toppled in a 1989 coup led by General Andres Rodriguez.
His regime is notable for its length, surpassed
in the 20th century only by that of Fidel Castro of Cuba (1959 -
2008), Todor Zhivkov of Bulgaria (March 4, 1954 – November 10,
1989), and Kim Il-sung of North Korea (1948 - 1994).
