Carlos Antonio López, a lawyer, is one…

Carlos Antonio López, a lawyer, is one of the most educated men in the country.

Until his elevation to consul, López, born in 1787, had lived in relative obscurity.

Although López's government is similar to Francia's system, his appearance, style, and policies are quite different.

In contrast to Francia, who was lean, Lopez is obese—  "great tidal wave of human flesh," according to one who knew him.

López is a despot who wants to found a dynasty and run Paraguay like a personal fiefdom.

Francia had pictured himself as the first citizen of a revolutionary state, whereas López uses the all-powerful state bequeathed by the proverbially honest Francia to enrich himself and his family.