The Paraguayan Army
The Paraguayan Army was a popular force.  It represented the entire country's population under arms. Surrounded by unrestless neighbors, Paraguay had its independence threatened from the very beginning. In fact, in 1811 the population was called to arms to expel an Argentinean expeditionary force led by General Manuel  Belgrano, who was appointed by Buenos Aires Congress to subdue that region to the interests of the new born Confederation of La Plata Provinces. There is scarce details about the army's organization in Francia's era. When Carlos Antonio Lopez raised to power in 1844 he developed some policies in order to have a force capable of defending the country. This aim, however, was never properly achieved.
The Paraguayan soldier was reputed as a fierce opponent, dedicated to the cause he believed and with an almost incredible tenacity. Nevertheless, the body of officers did not match such level. The most part of them (if not all) were appointed by their personal relationships. Thus, the positions they held had nothing to do with merit.
When the war against the Triple Alliance broke out, the lack of planning soon became clear. The war waged for five years thanks to the common soldier courage and the Paraguayan terrain, which proved to be proper for a defensive stand.
Paraguay Infantryman (Triple Alliance War)  1864-1870