He was governor of the Province of Minas Gerais (1950–56), where he initiated a programme of industrial and agricultural development. He then served as President of Brazil (1956–61). Determined to diversify the economy and reduce unemployment, he embarked on a massive public works programme, including the creation of the new capital city of Brasília. Economic prosperity followed, but at the cost of high inflation. Brazil’s national debt rose to $4 billion, while its population soared to over 60 million. He was forced into exile for three years by his successor Castel Branco.