After gaining independence from Spain and Portugal, Latin American countries struggled with political and economic instability. Society remained stratified, with small elites controlling the majority. Caudillos, or strongman leaders, vied for power through conservative and liberal factions. While constitutions were drafted, unity was difficult to achieve. Economically, Latin America focused on exporting commodities which kept the region dependent on foreign powers and hindered industrialization. The Mexican Revolution sought to address inequality and land issues but its goals were only partially realized.
Latin America Social Class Structure Political Economy After Independence
1. Latin America After Independence
Social Class Structure
P. 848-851
Pages 846-852
What are the problems, changes, or
continuities associated with these topics?
Elites, middle class, mixed
race, majority, caudillos, slaves, equality
Political Structure
P. 846-848
Caudillos, conservatives, liberals, role of the
Church, constitutions, unity, banana republic
Economic Structure
P. 848-849, 852
L.A. place in the world
economy, exports, imports, lack of
industrialization, banana
republic, infrastructure, urbanization, depen
dent development
Mexican Revolution
P. 851-852
Leaders, Goals, Results
