The predominant interpretation of nineteenth century Latin America is
to see the failure of constitutional democracy in the region in terms of the
inability of liberal elites to break with an authoritarian past. Against these views,
we argue that the divorce between liberalism and democracy in Latin America
was the unintended outcome of the institutions created by the liberal elite in
response to the problems of territorial fragmentation and factional conflict that
emerged after the fall of the Spanish empire. Using the cases of Argentina and
Mexico, we support this proposition by focusing on the creation of a centralised
form of government and a system of electoral control by the ruling elites as the
main factors that through time prevented the evolution of the liberal regime into
a competitive democracy.There is no good faith in America, nor among the nations of America. Treaties
are scraps of paper; constitutions, printed matter; elections, battles; freedom,
anarchy; and life, a torment.Simón Bolívar
This chapter explores the ideological traditions and families that were developed in Latin America. These can be dated back to colonial times or even to the pre-Hispanic era. However, this chapter focuses on the ideological families that became prominent during the national period after the new nations achieved independence. There are several significant ideological traditions that were developed in Latin America at this time. The article discusses Liberalism, Conservatism, Socialism, Nationalism/Populism, and Multiculturalism. The main ideas of each one of these traditions are explored as they evolved in that part of the world. The chapter provides a wide overview of the subject.
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