POLI 2215 C Latin American Politics

Abstract

1. Course Description How did colonialism influence Latin America's lasting affair with authoritarianism? What role does economic development play in consolidating democracy? Why have some Latin American countries been more successful than others in transitioning to democracy and tackling poverty and inequality? Latin America is undoubtedly a unique and complex region. Scholars argue that it has been susceptible to path-dependent progress, in which the colonial foundations—or inheritance—continue playing a fundamental role. Despite its similar historical background, present-day countries are profoundly diverse: a fact reflected by substantial differences in living standards, levels of poverty and inequality, and democratic consolidation. This course will examine Latin America's political and economic development by differentiating general patterns from country-specific features. In the first section, we will explore the stages of nation-state building. We will start by studying colonialism, independence movements, and then shift to focus on the main stages of economic and political development. In the second section, we will discuss case studies covering Brazil, Venezuela, Mexico and Central America. Additional themes and concepts include poverty and inequality, political enfranchisement, democratic backsliding, indigenous movem ents, and U.S.-Latin American relations. Classes will consist of lectures dictated by the instructor. Students should come prepared for class by doing all the assigned readings. Supplementary materials (listed under Optional Readings, Films, and Music) are not required, although students are encouraged to use them as resources. 2. Course Objectives This course aims for students to learn about: *Key historical figures, concepts, and processes commonly applied in the study of Latin America. *The general patterns concerning Latin America’s political and economic development, and the extent to which differences exist between sub-regions and countries. * How the U.S. and other foreign powers have shaped the fate of nations. * The persistence of structural problems such as poverty, inequality, and corruption.