Goulart, João [key], 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 leftist leanings. He was finally permitted to take office with severely limited powers, but a referendum in Jan., 1963, restored his full presidential powers. Goulart's administration was beset with economic problems, and political opinion polarized over its leftist social reform and nationalization policies and increasing ties to Brazil's political left. Overthrown by rightist political and military coup (Apr., 1964), he fled and was given asylum in Uruguay.
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