High levels of inequality in Latin America have indeed led to political instability. The control of resources and money by an elite social group rooted in colonial power has meant that institutions cater to the needs of this group rather than the entire population. As a result, large segments of the population are marginalized and excluded from economic opportunities, leading to social unrest and political upheaval.
Furthermore, the shift away from communist economic policies in many Latin American countries has not necessarily led to greater economic equality or stability. While some individuals have been able to own private businesses, overall wealth and power remain concentrated in the hands of the few. This lack of economic opportunity for the majority of the population further fuels dissatisfaction and political instability.
For example, the case of Cuba demonstrates how rapid economic growth can give way to instability when inequality is not addressed. In the mid-20th century, Cuba was experiencing economic and social progress, but growing inequality and political repression ultimately led to the Cuban Revolution in the late 1950s.
Additionally, the focus on industries like plantations, which offer low-paying and precarious employment, has prevented the creation of well-paid jobs in the region. This lack of economic mobility and opportunity exacerbates existing inequalities and breeds resentment, leading to political unrest and instability. Overall, high levels of inequality in Latin America have created a fertile ground for political instability, as marginalized populations seek to challenge the entrenched power dynamics in the region.
Analyze the argument that high levels of inequality have led to political instability in Latin America.(1 point)
Responses
An elite social group with its roots in the power of the Spanish, Portuguese, and French colonial elite still controls much of the region's resources and money. This causes institutions to look after the needs of this elite group, rather than all of a country’s population.
An elite social group with its roots in the power of the Spanish, Portuguese, and French colonial elite still controls much of the region's resources and money. This causes institutions to look after the needs of this elite group, rather than all of a country’s population.
Over time, Latin America’s communist economic and social policies have cooled. For example, many Latin Americans are now able to own private businesses, which was not allowed in the past.
Over time, Latin America’s communist economic and social policies have cooled. For example, many Latin Americans are now able to own private businesses, which was not allowed in the past.
In the middle of the twentieth century, Cuba appeared to be doing quite well. It was growing economically and socially. By the 1950s, however, it was no longer doing so well.
In the middle of the twentieth century, Cuba appeared to be doing quite well. It was growing economically and socially. By the 1950s, however, it was no longer doing so well.
Throughout the twentieth century, economic growth was focused on institutions, such as plantations, that do not supply a lot of well-paid employment. The region has fewer well-paid jobs available than other regions.
1 answer