Granta 31

Many things have been said about General Alfredo Stroessner, the 'President' of Paraguay for thirty-five years. These are ten of them: 1. That he was the longest-reigning dictator in the history of South America. 2. That his country was a haven for Nazis. 3. That, before he came to power, there was no electricity or running water. 4. That, after he came to power, the trains ran on time. 5. That on Thursdays, at three-fifteen, he could be found on the ranch near the Avenida Aviadores del Chaco - his guards posted at the gates - visiting his mistress. 6. That he 'bought' virgin schoolgirls from their parents. 7. That no man had more wealth. 8. That no man showed off his wealth less. 9. That no man was more feared. 10. That Richard Nixon was his friend. But these points, like so many others, are only speculation: The General doesn't grant interviews. Until, nine months after he was deposed, he was tracked down by Isabel Hilton who spent three days with him, tape recorder running.