Joao Figueiredo vs Rafael Trujillo

Figueiredo's government passed legislation ending the two-party system imposed by the military, allowing the formation of multiple political parties. This reform facilitated the reorganization of opposition forces and the eventual return to multi-party democracy.

Figueiredo became the last military president of Brazil, succeeding Ernesto Geisel. His presidency marked the continuation of the political opening (abertura) process initiated by Geisel, aiming for a gradual transition to democracy.

Figueiredo signed Law No. 6,683, granting amnesty to political exiles and those accused of political crimes during the military regime. The law also covered state agents, preventing prosecution for human rights abuses.

A bomb exploded at a May Day concert at Riocentro, killing a military sergeant and wounding another. Evidence suggested involvement of hardline military factions opposed to abertura. The incident weakened Figueiredo's government and accelerated the democratic transition.

Facing a severe debt crisis and inflation, Figueiredo's government implemented an IMF-backed austerity program, including currency devaluation and spending cuts. The plan failed to stabilize the economy, leading to recession and social unrest.

Figueiredo's government faced massive public demonstrations demanding direct presidential elections (Diretas J

Trujillo, as commander of the National Army, staged a coup against President Horacio V

Trujillo ordered the massacre of Haitians living in the Dominican border region. Soldiers killed an estimated 20,000 to 30,000 people using machetes. The event was named for the shibboleth used to distinguish Haitians from Dominicans.

Trujillo used state power to acquire control over the sugar industry, the country's main economic sector. He and his family became the largest landowners and sugar producers, enriching themselves while the state managed the industry.

Trujillo was ambushed and killed by a group of Dominican dissidents on a highway near Ciudad Trujillo. The assassination was aided by the U.S. Central Intelligence Agency, which provided weapons. His death ended the dictatorship.