born July 10, 1926, Santa Cruz, Bol.
died May 5, 2002, Santa Cruz
Soldier and president of Bolivia (197178, 19972001).
After an education in Bolivian and U.S. Army training schools, Bánzer served in various government posts. He became president after participating in the overthrow of two Bolivian governments in 1970 and 1971. A conservative, he encouraged foreign investment and severely repressed all opposition. His restrictions of union activities and constitutional liberties led to opposition by labour, the clergy, peasants, and students. A 1978 coup d'état overthrew him, but he was democratically elected in 1997. He resigned in 2001.