Raúl Alfonsín

Raúl Ricardo Alfonsín (12 March 1927 – 31 March 2009) was an Argentine lawyer and politician who served as the President of Argentina from 10 December 1983 to 8 July 1989. He was a member of the Radical Civic Union (UCR) and played a pivotal role in the transition from military dictatorship to democracy in Argentina.

Early Life and Education

Raúl Alfonsín was born in Chascomús, a small town in the Buenos Aires Province. He was the son of Serafín Raúl Alfonsín Ochoa and Ana María Foulkes. Alfonsín attended the University of Buenos Aires, where he studied law and graduated in 1950. During his university years, he became involved in politics, joining the Radical Civic Union.

Political Career

Alfonsín's political career began in the 1950s when he was elected to the Buenos Aires Provincial Legislature. He was a staunch advocate for human rights and democracy, which became central themes throughout his political life. In 1973, he was elected to the Argentine Chamber of Deputies, where he served until the military coup of 1976.

Presidency (1983–1989)

Alfonsín was elected President of Argentina in 1983, following the end of the National Reorganization Process, a period of military dictatorship. His election marked the return of democracy to Argentina. During his presidency, Alfonsín focused on human rights, economic stabilization, and institutional reforms.

Human Rights and the "Trial of the Juntas"

One of Alfonsín's most significant achievements was the "Trial of the Juntas" in 1985, where key figures of the military dictatorship were prosecuted for human rights abuses. This was a landmark event in Argentine history, as it was one of the first times that a former dictatorship was held accountable in a court of law.

Economic Challenges

Alfonsín's presidency was marked by severe economic challenges, including hyperinflation, external debt, and fiscal deficits. Despite efforts to stabilize the economy through the Austral Plan, these issues persisted and led to social unrest.

Institutional Reforms

Alfonsín also worked on institutional reforms, including the establishment of the National Commission on the Disappearance of Persons (CONADEP), which investigated human rights violations during the dictatorship.

Later Life and Legacy

After leaving office in 1989, Alfonsín remained active in politics and continued to advocate for democracy and human rights. He served as a senator and was involved in various international organizations. Alfonsín passed away on 31 March 2009 in Buenos Aires.

Alfonsín is remembered as a key figure in Argentina's return to democracy and for his commitment to human rights. His presidency set a precedent for democratic governance in the country.

Also see

• Radical Civic Union
• Trial of the Juntas
• National Reorganization Process
• History of Argentina
• Presidents of Argentina