Praexedes Mateo Sagasta vs Tancredo Neves

Sagasta, as leader of the Liberal Party, signed the Pact of El Pardo with Conservative leader Antonio Canovas del Castillo. This agreement formalized the turno pacifico, ensuring the peaceful alternation of power between the two parties after the death of King Alfonso XII.

Sagasta's government passed the Law of Associations, which legalized trade unions and political organizations. This law provided a legal framework for labor movements and political parties, fostering the growth of civil society in Spain.

As prime minister, Sagasta enacted the Law of Universal Suffrage for men over 25, replacing the previous census-based suffrage. This reform expanded the electorate significantly, though its impact was limited by continued electoral manipulation through caciquismo.

Sagasta was prime minister when the Spanish-American War broke out following the sinking of the USS Maine. Spain suffered a decisive defeat, losing its remaining colonies of Cuba, Puerto Rico, the Philippines, and Guam, marking the end of the Spanish Empire.

Tancredo Neves was elected Governor of Minas Gerais in 1982 and took office in 1983. His administration was noted for its support of democratic reforms and opposition to the military regime.

Tancredo Neves was elected President of Brazil by the Electoral College on January 15, 1985, defeating the military regime's candidate. His election marked the end of 21 years of military dictatorship and the beginning of Brazil's return to democracy.

On March 14, 1985, the eve of his inauguration, Tancredo Neves was hospitalized with severe abdominal pain. He underwent multiple surgeries but died on April 21, 1985, without ever taking office. His death caused national mourning and a political crisis.