Juan Perón, born in 1895, was a pivotal figure in Argentine history. Rising through military ranks, he entered politics after a 1943 coup and was elected president in 1946. His presidency, characterized by populist policies and social welfare programs known as "Peronism," significantly improved living standards for many Argentinians. However, by the early 1950s, Perón's regime faced mounting challenges. The death of his wife Eva in 1952, who had been a key source of popular support, dealt a blow to his administration. Economic problems, including inflation and declining production, began to erode public confidence. In 1955, Perón's excommunication by the Catholic Church following confrontations over religious influence further weakened his position.

The stage was set for the 1955 coup, known as the "Revolución Libertadora" (Liberating Revolution). On September 16, 1955, a faction of the military, supported by various opposition groups, launched a rebellion against Perón's government. The coup was led by General Eduardo Lonardi and involved significant naval and air force participation. One of the most dramatic events of the coup was the bombing of the Plaza de Mayo in Buenos Aires, where pro-Perón demonstrators had gathered. This attack, which resulted in hundreds of civilian casualties, shocked the nation and intensified the conflict.

Despite initial resistance from loyal forces and workers' militias, the coup quickly gained momentum. Perón, realizing the extent of the opposition, sought to avoid further bloodshed and resigned on September 19, 1955. He initially sought asylum in Paraguay before moving to other countries during his exile. The military junta that took power aimed to eradicate Peronism, banning the party and attempting to purge its influence from Argentine society. However, these efforts were only partially successful, as Peronism remained a potent force in Argentine politics.

Perón's ousting marked a significant shift in Argentina's political landscape, ushering in a period of instability and military rule. Despite attempts to suppress it, the Peronist movement persisted, leading to Perón's return and re-election in 1973. His death in office in 1974 and the subsequent instability led to another military coup in 1976. Perón's legacy remains complex and contested, continuing to shape Argentine politics to this day.