The governments of the 1940s
Political power during this period underwent several changes in style. Throughout the 1930s and 1940s, leadership was largely institutional and detached. Agustín P. Justo exercised power through an emphasis on administration and major public works. Meanwhile, Roberto M. Ortiz sought to restore the path towards electoral openness and achieve closer ties with society. In contrast, Ramón Castillo represented a conservative and inward-looking style of government, in which decisions were made behind closed doors and far removed from the public sphere.
In 1943, with the emergence of the GOU (United Officers Group) and the second military intervention experienced by the country, power shifted from government offices to the military barracks. Under the new military administration, Pedro Ramírez sought to unify the Armed Forces around a common goal, the exercise of power from Casa Rosada. However, his power was limited by internal tension, as evidenced by his resignation from the presidency. Under Edelmiro Farrell, the administration sought to build a broader social base and secure its permanence in power. It was during this process that Juan Domingo Perón gradually rose to prominence, paving the way for his eventual election to the presidency.