Question

Describe ways that economic instability led to the rise of military dictatorships in Latin America.(1 point)
Responses

The combination of capitalism and communism embraced by all Latin American dictators promised growth.
The combination of capitalism and communism embraced by all Latin American dictators promised growth.

Sometimes the promise of economic growth and the benefits that come with it help bring dictatorships into power.
Sometimes the promise of economic growth and the benefits that come with it help bring dictatorships into power.

Only dictators create economic reforms, and these turn a country toward economic stability.
Only dictators create economic reforms, and these turn a country toward economic stability.

Economic growth came because all Latin American dictators were against a free market economy based in capitalism.
Economic growth came because all Latin American dictators were against a free market economy based in capitalism.

Answer 1

Economic instability in Latin America led to the rise of military dictatorships through various mechanisms, often rooted in the following dynamics:

1. **Political Instability and Civil Unrest**: Economic crises, such as hyperinflation, recession, or significant disparities in wealth, often resulted in widespread public discontent. In such scenarios, military leaders could position themselves as stabilizing forces, promising to restore order and economic stability.

2. **Perceived Ineffectiveness of Democratic Governments**: When democratic governments failed to address economic issues—such as unemployment, poverty, or inflation—citizens and political elites often turned to military leaders who promised swift and decisive action. This perception of ineffectiveness facilitated military coups.

3. **Support from Foreign Powers**: During the Cold War, the U.S. and other foreign powers sometimes supported military regimes as a way to counter perceived communist threats, believing that dictatorial governance would lead to more favorable economic policies aligned with capitalist interests.

4. **Promotion of Economic Reforms**: Military dictators often proposed and implemented rapid economic reforms, which they argued were necessary to restore stability and growth. While these reforms sometimes led to initial improvements, they often resulted in long-term social and economic inequities.

These factors collectively contributed to the rise of military dictatorships in Latin America during periods of economic instability.