Goulart, João (zhwouN g

lär`), 1918–76, president of Brazil (1961–64). A rancher and attorney, he served as minister of labor, industry, and commerce (1953–54) and as vice president (1956–61). His succession to the presidency upon the resignation of President Janio Quadros (Aug., 1961) was opposed by the military because of his pro-Communist leanings. He was finally permitted to take office with severely limited powers although a plebiscite in Jan., 1963, gave him full presidential powers. Goulart's administration was beset with economic problems and political opinion polarized as the Communists' influence increased. Goulart was overthrown in a rightist revolution (Apr., 1964); he fled and was given asylum in Uruguay.

Goulart, João (Belchior Marques)

(born March 1, 1918, São Borja, Braz.—died Dec. 6, 1976, Corrientes province, Arg.) Reformist president of Brazil (1961–64). Son of a wealthy rancher, he earned a law degree and became a protégé of Pres. Getúlio Vargas, in whose administration he served as minister of labour, industry, and commerce. Elected vice president (1956–61), he became president when Pres. Jânio Quadros resigned. He undertook a program of radical reforms, winning passage of a law limiting the amount of profits that foreign companies could export. He attempted land reform but was unable to secure majority support for his legislative program. Inflation reached alarming proportions, the cost of living tripling. He was ousted by the military in 1964 and died in exile.