José Gaspar Rodríguez de Francia was one of Paraguay’s first leaders after its independence; he served as the supreme dictator of the country for 26 years. Ruling from 1814 until his death in 1840, he succeeded in establishing a strong, secure, and independent nation at a time when Paraguay's continued existence as an independent country seemed doubtful. Born to an artillery officer, he was trained in theology, and after serving as a professor for several years, he became a lawyer to help the less privileged, eventually entering politics. He became a member of the cabildo (Paraguayan administrative council) and was later appointed Secretary to the National Junta, which had overthrown Spanish rule in 1811. Two years later, he was elected as the country’s sole leader, and in 1816, he became the supreme dictator of Paraguay for life. He was a competent and honest ruler but was also known for his harshness. Despite his shortcomings, he was tremendously popular with the lower classes, and in order to keep his country independent, he banned all foreign commerce. Despite his inadequacies, he is regarded as one of the greatest figures in Paraguayan history and is remembered for his remarkable contributions to the development of his nation.