Julio Adalberto Rivera

Rivera, Julio Adalberto (hū'lyō ädälbār'tō rēvā'rä), 1921-73, president of El Salvador (1962-67). An army lieutenant colonel, he headed the junta that overthrew the leftist government in Jan., 1961. His junta rule was unexpectedly progressive, enacting numerous measures, including a new income tax law. In 1962 the junta promulgated a new constitution under which Rivera was elected president for a five-year term. His administration was noteworthy for its social reforms, economic prosperity, and domestic tranquility. He was succeeded by Fidel Sánchez Hernández.