Paraguay was inhabited by the Guarani indians before the arrival of Europeans. It became a Spanish possession in 1535. It declared independence in 1811.
The president, General Alfredo Stroessner, seized control through a coup in 1954. He has executive power and names the ministers. Presidential elections have been held every 5 years since 1958—all have been won by Stroessner.
The 1968 constitution gives legislative power to the National Congress, consisting of a 30-seat Senate, and a 60-seat House of Representatives. Members are elected every 5 years. Two-thirds of the seats are held by the Stroessner-supported Partido Colorado.
