Latin American Social and Political Transformations
New Social Groups in Latin America
In Latin American countries with economies of national control, the development of the productive system led to growing social diversification. Urban areas included small traders, artisans, professionals, teachers, and public employees. In countries with enclave economies, the distribution of income from exports was minimal, with a distinction between enclave mining workers and some urban sectors related to public administration.
Transition from Restricted to Expanded Democracy
Electoral regimes changed, but initially, less than 50% of the voting-age population could vote due to various reasons, including lack of documentation. The ruling class faced elections, though divided, and clung to preserving the legal front. Political groups began reforms to broaden political participation.
The Civic Revolution of 1890: Expanding the Political Field
From 1880 to 1890, the Liberal Party dominated politics. The economic crisis during the Celman administration led to a significant sector of the citizenry protesting against a corrupt system. The 1890s marked a shift in understanding politics. Opposition groups, like radicalism and socialism, questioned the procedures used to maintain control, alleging electoral fraud and manipulation.
The 1912 Political Reform: Expanding the Democratic Horizon
The crisis of participation, caused by the gap between progressive society and the conservative political regime, led to changes within the ruling class. The push for democratic expansion originated within the ruling party. The removal of Pellegrini led to a search for a system not based on class interests. After Quintana’s death, Figueroa Alcorta came to power, and reformers gained influence. The confrontation between conservatives and reformists led to the election of Roque Saenz Peña, whose policy aimed to enable the participation of opposition groups and implement rules to avoid fraud and electoral manipulation.
The Primary Export Model: The National Economy by 1880
In 1880, Argentina’s economic potential was weakly developed, with shortages and a lack of national modernization. The state lacked effective control over large areas, a national currency, and a modern accounting system. The second Industrial Revolution favored Argentina’s natural advantages, leading to the production of vast lands for primary activities. The expansive model demanded raw materials and food, encouraging immigration and foreign capital to support the commercialization of Argentine products.