López Portillo y Pacheco, José (1920–2004)

Mexican right-wing politician, president 1976–82. He halted land redistribution, sought to develop Mexico's oil reserves, and helped mediate several Pan-American disputes. However, Mexico faced mounting financial difficulties after 1980 when oil prices fell and, as the country became threatened with potential international bankruptcy, he dramatically nationalized the banking system in September 1982. The administration was accused of corruption and constrained its successors through its legacy of debt.

Born in Mexico City and educated at the University of Mexico, he was a lawyer and university professor before becoming finance minister 1973–75, under President Luis Echeverría, and overseeing important reforms to the tax system. In 1976, standing as the candidate of the ruling Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI), he was elected president.

López Portillo was also the author of books on political theory and novels.