Illia, Arturo (Umberto) (1900–1983)

Argentine moderate politician and president 1963–66. Elected president as a candidate for the People's Radical Civic Union, his administration inherited a nation with severe economic problems. Although economic restructuring had brought about some improvements, Illia was unable to deal effectively in restoring stable economic conditions. His attempts to disunite the Perónist camp failed, and led to a Perónist-supported coup in 1966 that deposed Illia from power and resulted in General Juan Carlos Ongania taking up office.

A doctor by profession, Illia entered political life in the 1930s. During the period 1948–52, he was a minority political figure in the Perónist-dominated national legislature. He was vice-governor of Córdoba province before gaining presidential office in the 1963 elections; a victory achieved with only 25% of the vote.