Political Movements and Violence in Central America: A Historical and Comparative Perspective

Central America has a long and tumultuous history of political violence. From the late 19th century to the present day, the region has been plagued by civil wars, coups d'état, and other forms of political instability. This violence has had a devastating impact on Central American societies, leading to widespread poverty, inequality, and human rights abuses.

Political Movements and Violence in Central America (Cambridge Studies in Contentious Politics)

by Charles D. Brockett

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Language	:	English
File size	:	6701 KB
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Print length	:	404 pages
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The roots of political violence in Central America are complex and varied. They include economic inequality, social injustice, and the legacy of colonialism. In the late 19th century, Central America was a region of great economic inequality. The vast majority of the population lived in poverty, while a small elite controlled the vast majority of the wealth. This inequality led to widespread social unrest, which was often expressed through political violence.

The legacy of colonialism also played a role in the development of political violence in Central America. During the colonial period, the Spanish imposed a system of racial hierarchy on the region. This system divided society into two groups: the white elite and the non-white majority. The non-white majority was subjected to discrimination and exploitation, which led to resentment and anger. This resentment often found expression in political violence.

In the 20th century, political violence in Central America was further fueled by the Cold War. The United States and the Soviet Union both intervened in the region, supporting different sides in the region's civil wars. This intervention only served to prolong and intensify the violence.

The key players involved in political violence in Central America have included governments, armed groups, and social movements. Governments have often used violence to suppress dissent and maintain their power. Armed groups have used violence to overthrow governments and achieve their political goals. Social movements have used violence to fight for social justice and economic equality.

The impact of political violence on Central American societies has been devastating. Violence has led to widespread poverty, inequality, and human rights abuses. It has also undermined the region's economic development and social stability.

There is no easy solution to the problem of political violence in Central America. However, there are a number of things that can be done to address the root causes of violence and promote peace and stability in the region. These include:

• Promoting economic equality and social justice
• Addressing the legacy of colonialism
• Ending the cycle of violence
• Promoting peace and reconciliation

These are just a few of the things that can be done to address the problem of political violence in Central America. By working together, the people of the region can build a more just and peaceful future.

References

1. Paige, J. M. (1975). Agrarian revolution: Social movements and export agriculture in the underdeveloped world. New York: Free Press.
2. Wood, E. J. (2003). Insurgent collective action and civil war in El Salvador. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press.
3. Grandin, G. (2011). The empire of necessity: Slavery, freedom, and deception in the New World. New York: Metropolitan Books.
4. LeGrand, C. (2018). Inequality in Latin America: Economic and social perspectives. London: Routledge.
5. The World Bank. (2019). Poverty and inequality in Central America. Washington, DC: World Bank.

Political Movements and Violence in Central America (Cambridge Studies in Contentious Politics)

by Charles D. Brockett

5 out of 5

Language	:	English
File size	:	6701 KB
Screen Reader	:	Supported
Print length	:	404 pages
X-Ray for textbooks	:	Enabled

FREE