Latin American Politics Midterm

Economic Liberalism

An ideology advocating for free markets, minimal government intervention, and the protection of individual property rights.

Import-Substitution Industrialization (ISI)

Producing manufactured goods previously imported from abroad. Can only work with larger countries with larger markets

What did ISI lead to and why was it effective?

Nationalism and self-determination. It aimed at reducing foreign dependency by promoting domestic production of goods

Neoliberalism

Emphasizes free markets, deregulation, and reduction in government spending. Supports the private sector and reduces the role of the state

What was different between the Spanish colonies and Portuguese colony (Brazil)?

- Spanish colonies were often governed through a centralized viceroyalty system, while Brazil had a more decentralized administration to only ward of French + British

- Spanish were focused on riches like gold, while Brazil was agriculturally dominated instead.

- More indigenous populations for the Spanish (Inca, Maya, Aztec). Brazil had no native population

What were the societal norms of Spanish and Portuguese colonies?

Both had systems based on race - native Europeans at the top, mixed towards the middle, and African slaves at the bottom

Why did Cuba like Fidel Castro's takeover?

They wanted change and felt the nationalization of the economy through authoritarian succession would be best

How did Pinochet take over Chile and how did he mask his true reasoning?

Inflation was at 500% at the time of takeover, so he used this as an excuse to exercise total control. He attempted to open Chile to the world economy

What was the history of Chile before BA?

Civil War ensued and led to the bloodiest battles in Chilean history. When Allende succumbed to military overthrow, over 3000 Chileans died (most for a military intervention in South American history)

How did Juan Perón influence Argentina's political landscape?

His populist policies and charismatic leadership shaped the political environment, leading to both support and opposition that influenced subsequent military interventions. He also got the nation to pay off its national debt with his initial economic policy.

What role did military interventions play in Argentina's transition to democracy?

Military interventions were pivotal in enforcing authoritarian rule, but they ultimately led to public discontent and demands for democratic governance, resulting in a transition to democracy.

Why did Argentina's bureaucratic authoritarian regime transition to democracy?

The regime transitioned to democracy due to increasing public opposition, economic crises, and international pressure for human rights and democratic governance.

What characterized Argentina's BA the most?

10k-20k people disappeared after Perón died and the military intervened once again. Though this was towards the end of the BA period, it was the worst part of the period

What were some characteristics about Brazil's bureaucratic authoritarianism?

Human rights violations, numerous military interventions, political repressions, and Army officers who were a vital part of Brazilian politics

What was the National Security Doctrine?

A policy adopted by several Latin American countries during the Cold War that justified military intervention to combat perceived threats of communism.

What was the Alliance for Progress?

A U.S. initiative launched in 1961 aimed at fostering economic development and political stability in Latin America to counteract the influence of communism.

How did the Cold War influence U.S. foreign policy in Latin America?

The U.S. supported authoritarian regimes and military coups to prevent the spread of communism, often prioritizing geopolitical interests over democratic values.

What were some consequences of the Cold War in Latin America?

Increased military repression, human rights abuses, and political instability, as well as economic dependency on the United States.

What role did the Cold War play in shaping Latin American military policies?

The Cold War led to the militarization of politics in many countries, with governments using military force to suppress dissent and maintain control.