Billy Hughes vs Pinheiro Machado

Billy Hughes became Prime Minister of Australia on October 27, 1915, succeeding Andrew Fisher. He led the country through the remainder of World War I, becoming a dominant figure in Australian politics.

Hughes held two national referendums on conscription for overseas military service during WWI, in 1916 and 1917. Both were narrowly defeated, causing a split in the Labor Party. Hughes and his supporters left to form the Nationalist Party.

Following the defeat of the first conscription referendum, Hughes was expelled from the Australian Labor Party in November 1916. He then formed the National Labor Party, which later merged with the Liberal Party to become the Nationalist Party.

Hughes represented Australia at the Paris Peace Conference in 1919. He argued strongly for Australian interests, including control over former German colonies in the Pacific and reparations from Germany. He also secured Australia's separate membership in the League of Nations.

Pinheiro Machado was elected President of the Federal Senate of Brazil. He wielded significant power as a political boss, controlling patronage and influencing national policy. His leadership made him one of the most powerful figures in the Republic.

Pinheiro Machado led the 'Salvacionista' campaign, a movement to intervene in state governments to remove opposition politicians. This campaign consolidated his power but also created widespread opposition and contributed to political instability.

Pinheiro Machado was a key supporter of Hermes da Fonseca's successful presidential campaign. His political machine delivered crucial votes, and he became the power behind the throne during da Fonseca's administration.

Pinheiro Machado was stabbed to death by Francisco Coimbra, a political opponent, in the lobby of the Hotel dos Estrangeiros in Rio de Janeiro. His assassination shocked the nation and highlighted the intense political rivalries of the period.