The Revolutions

Being stunted in development by colonialism, the fights for independence in Latin America were many. Imperialism has been a key factor in the political and economic decisions that have been made leading to the revolutionary struggles. Throughout history the people of Latin America have made attempts at gaining control of their land, resources, and government whether through an international movement, top-down revolution, or popular revolution. The people of Latin America have showed many times over that they are willing to stand up against the things that continue to oppress them. Yet each revolution has also experienced backlashes from counter-revolutionary groups, for example the right-wing response to the social reforms years of Allende with the Coup leading to Pinochet.

Myths surrounding revolution have stemmed not only from the counter-revolutionary parties and the ruling classes, but also from the more moderate, liberal base. This section will debunk some of these myths. We will look at Castroism and Che’s role as a mythic and savior figure in the Cuban Revolution. The sections on Chile will address the myths surrounding Allende and Pinochet and the controversies of them during the time of the coup and now. Allende was seen as a leftist figure to some, but also as too reformist to the far left. There was and still is debate about the socialist reform movement that Allende was trying to lead. Views on Pinochet have also been mixed between war criminal and savior from communism. Another essay will look at the MIR, the revolutionary left group, in Chile during the Coup and how they had different ideas about Chile ’s future than Allende. The myth that MIR was responsible for the coup and repression will be further addressed. And then there is an essay dealing with the countries deemed “banana republics” and the impact that corporations such as the United Fruit Company have had on the economy and politics in many Latin American countries, including Guatemala and Honduras. This essay will address myths surrounding Sam the Banana Man and the United Fruit Company’s role in the 1954 coup in Guatemala .

Even today struggle is everywhere in Latin America. Due to the poor conditions and the lack of development during periods of colonial and other imperial control, Latin Americans have been left with few opportunities to improve their lives. Revolution often seems the only answer.