Fateh Singh of Udaipur vs Jose Gaspar Rodriguez de Francia

Fateh Singh became Maharana of Mewar at age 35 after the death of his brother Sajjan Singh. His reign was marked by efforts to preserve Mewar's autonomy while cooperating with the British, and he became a prominent figure in the early Indian independence movement.

Fateh Singh extended moral and financial support to the Indian National Congress in its early years. He allowed Congress sessions to be held in Udaipur and advocated for Indian representation in British governance, though he remained a loyal prince.

Fateh Singh commissioned the Fateh Prakash Palace in Udaipur, a blend of Rajput and European styles. The palace served as a royal residence and later became a heritage hotel, reflecting his patronage of architecture.

Fateh Singh publicly opposed the British partition of Bengal, aligning with the Swadeshi movement. He encouraged the use of Indian-made goods and supported the boycott of British products, though he did not engage in open rebellion.

Fateh Singh died in 1930 after a 46-year reign. He was succeeded by his son Bhupal Singh. His reign saw Mewar maintain its cultural identity while engaging with the nationalist movement.

Francia was appointed Supreme Dictator of Paraguay by a congress, consolidating absolute power. He established a regime of total isolation, banning foreign trade and travel, and suppressing internal opposition to maintain Paraguayan independence from Argentina and Brazil.

Francia ordered the complete closure of Paraguay's land and river borders, cutting off all external trade and communication. This policy, enforced for decades, aimed to protect Paraguay from foreign influence but led to economic stagnation and self-sufficiency.

Francia confiscated all property of the Catholic Church in Paraguay, including land and buildings, and placed the clergy under state control. He also suppressed religious orders and executed several priests who opposed his rule.

Francia died of natural causes in Asunci