Warnings from the Far South: Democracy versus Dictatorship in Uruguay, Argentina, and Chile

by William C. Davis

Overview

This work examines three advanced Latin American republics with long records of democracy, political stability, and economic prosperity which degenerated into instability and military dictatorship—and issues a warning for other democratic peoples. Although not beset by overpopulation, serious racial diversity, or widespread illiteracy, in recent decades the people of Uruguay, Argentina, and Chile destroyed much of the good life and many of the freedoms they formerly enjoyed. Electing too few statesmen and too many politicians, they demanded more from their governments than they were willing to pay for. Rejecting sound economic policies, they engaged in unrealistic practices which led to exorbitant inflation. In contrast to traditional respect for individual freedoms, the military governments they brought in to solve their problems committed gross violations of human rights. The political and economic blunders and their unfortunate consequences should serve as a warnings to the citizens of all democracies.

Product Details

ISBN-13:	9780275950217
Publisher:	Bloomsbury Academic
Publication date:	08/24/1995
Series:	History; 50
Pages:	256
Product dimensions:	6.00(w) x 9.00(h) x 0.75(d)
Lexile:	1410L (what's this?)

About the Author

WILLIAM COLUMBUS DAVIS' academic career spans more than a quarter of a century and includes positions with the University of Georgia, George Washington University, and most recently the National War College, where he served as Professor of International Affairs. He was director of Latin American Studies at all three institutions.

Table of Contents

Preface
The Far South and The Latin American Environment
Uruguay: Lost Utopia
Argentina: A Divided Land
Chile: The Democracy That Was
Lessons from the Far South
Bibliography
Index

Editorial Reviews

Drawing on various news accounts, personal observations, and interviews, documents the attempts of people in three of the most developed Latin American countries to win themselves a larger share of the world's resources and improve their lives. Describes the descent from established democracies to military dictatorships and guerilla wars, from stable economies to inflation and poverty, and traces them to unrealistic expectations and experimentation. Warns that such mistakes are possible in any free society and even the proudest people would ignore the lesson at their peril. Annotation c. Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)

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