Leguía, Agusto Bernardino (1863–1932)

Peruvian politician and president 1908–12 and 1919–30. During his first term, he actively embarked on a programme of fiscal, social and public infrastructural reform. He participated in the negotiations that ultimately resolved the territorial boundary disputes between his own country, Brazil, and Bolivia. His second term in office was marked by his severance of ties with the old Peruvian oligarchy. In 1920, he promulgated a new constitution, and ruled dictatorially, vigorously suppressing all opposition.

His modernization of the country and the capital, Lima, produced vast national debts. The Tacna-Arica controversy with Chile, initiated in 1883, was resolved under Leguía, though his acceptance of a compromise caused contention. Growing economic depression and the oppressive nature of his administration ultimately brought about the termination of his office; in 1930, Leguía was removed from power in a coup. He was later found guilty of embezzlement and imprisoned.

Leguía was born in Lambayeque, a descendant of a prominent family of the Peruvian oligarchy. Before entering into political life, Leguía had successfully established his own company, in 1896. During the period 1903–1908, his main government positions were as finance minister and prime minister.