About
Juan María Bordaberry was an Uruguayan politician and cattle rancher who served as the President of Uruguay from 1972 to 1976. He previously served as Minister of Agriculture. Bordaberry rose to power following the 1971 elections, but his presidency was marked by increasing authoritarianism. In 1973, he orchestrated a self-coup, dissolving the General Assembly and establishing a military-influenced Council of State. He ruled by decree as a dictator until he was overthrown by the military due to disagreements.
Career Timeline
Elected President of Uruguay
Elected President following the 1971 elections; initially governs with a center-right platform.
Orchestrates Self-Coup
Dissolves the General Assembly in a self-coup, establishing a military-influenced Council of State.
Overthrown by the Military
Ousted by the military due to disagreements, marking the end of his rule.
Convicted of Crimes
Convicted of crimes related to his role in the dictatorship.
Death in Montevideo
Dies under house arrest in Montevideo, leaving a legacy defined by authoritarianism.
Legacy as Dictator
Remembered for his authoritarian rule and the human rights abuses that occurred under his regime.
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Last updated: February 25, 2026