Paraguay, a landlocked South American nation, has produced a number of notable figures throughout history. From military leaders to athletes, artists to politicians, Paraguayans have made significant contributions to the world. Here are some of the most famous people from Paraguay:
José Gaspar Rodríguez de Francia
Often referred to as El Supremo, José Gaspar Rodríguez de Francia was a Paraguayan dictator who ruled the country from 1814 to 1840. He pursued an isolationist policy, closing the country’s borders and limiting foreign influence. This period, known as the Francia Era, is a fascinating chapter in Paraguayan history.
Carlos Antonio López
Carlos Antonio López was the first constitutional president of Paraguay, serving from 1844 to 1862. He is credited with modernising the country and opening it up to foreign trade. López’s policies laid the groundwork for Paraguay’s economic development.
Francisco Solano López
Francisco Solano López was the son of Carlos Antonio López and succeeded him as president of Paraguay. He is best known for leading the country into the disastrous War of the Triple Alliance (1864-1870), a conflict that devastated Paraguay.
Alfredo Stroessner
Alfredo Stroessner was a Paraguayan dictator who ruled the country for 35 years, from 1954 to 1989. His authoritarian regime was marked by human rights abuses and economic stagnation.
Fernando Lugo
Fernando Lugo served as the 49th President of Paraguay from 2008 to 2012. A former Roman Catholic bishop, Lugo was a progressive figure who advocated for social justice and economic equality.
Juan Bautista Villalba
Juan Bautista Villalba is a Paraguayan politician and former guerrilla leader. He is the founder of the Paraguayan People’s Army (PPA) and has been a prominent figure in Paraguayan politics for decades.
Roque Santa Cruz
Roque Santa Cruz is a former Paraguayan footballer who played as a striker for various clubs, including Bayern Munich, Manchester City, and Blackburn Rovers. He is considered one of the greatest Paraguayan footballers of all time, and is one of the most famous people from Paraguay.
Nelson Haedo Valdez
Nelson Haedo Valdez is another legendary Paraguayan footballer. He played as a striker for various clubs, including Borussia Dortmund, Hertha BSC, and Al Sadd.
Salvador Cabañas
Salvador Cabañas is a former Paraguayan footballer who played as a striker for various clubs, including América and Jaguares. He was a prolific goalscorer and is considered one of the best Paraguayan footballers of his generation.
Fabiola Martínez
Fabiola Martínez is a Paraguayan model and television presenter. She has represented Paraguay in various international beauty pageants and has become a popular figure in the Latin American entertainment industry.
Larissa Riquelme
Larissa Riquelme is a Paraguayan model and television presenter. She gained international fame during the 2010 FIFA World Cup for her passionate support of the Paraguayan national team.
Liliana González
Liliana González is a Paraguayan actress and model. She has appeared in numerous television shows and films, both in Paraguay and internationally.
Sol Fanego
Sol Fanego is a Paraguayan actress and model. She is best known for her roles in Paraguayan telenovelas and films.
Derlis González
Derlis González is a Paraguayan footballer who currently plays as a forward for Club Olimpia. He has also represented the Paraguayan national team.
Miguel Almirón
Miguel Almirón is a Paraguayan footballer who currently plays as an attacking midfielder for Newcastle United. He is a skilled and creative player who has impressed in the Premier League.
Celso Ortiz
Celso Ortiz is a Paraguayan footballer who plays as a defensive midfielder for Monterrey. He has been a key player for Paraguay’s national team.
Julio César Romero
Julio César Romero is a former Paraguayan footballer who played as a midfielder. He is considered one of the greatest Paraguayan footballers of all time and was a key member of the Paraguay national team during the 1970s and 1980s.
José Luis Chilavert
José Luis Chilavert is a former Paraguayan footballer who played as a goalkeeper. He was known for his exceptional goal-scoring ability and his fiery temperament. Chilavert is considered one of the greatest goalkeepers in South American football history, and is one of the most famous people from Paraguay.
To find out more about famous people from Paraguay, including artists, musicians, entrepreneurs, local celebrities, and national heroes, check out the people section of The Asunción Times!
