Comparative Political Stability in Latin America: Case Studies in Costa Rica, Argentina, and Cuba

Abstract

In recent years, Latin America has taken a backseat in terms of American foreign policy. A region that is stereo typically considered unstable and violent has ceased to be important to the United States, its hemispherical neighbor and global superpower. This project sheds some light on the assumption that Latin America is wholly unstable, and recognizes the causes and effects of social, economic, historical, and political factors that play a role in whether or not a state is politically stable. The study focuses on three players from varying regions of Latin America: Costa Rica, Argentina, and Cuba. Costa Rica is often considered one of the oldest, most stable democracies in the region. Cuba and Argentina have both had dictatorships in the last century, and their economies have risen and fallen, or vice versa. This project identifies some major factors in stability in an area that is grouped together as a Hispanic culture, but has so much variety within it. The thesis sheds light on the role of conflict history, economic development, political structure, and individual leaders in defining each state's political stability. Costa Rica, Argentina, and Cuba possess varying degrees of each of these factors, and the findings provide evidence for their current status on the political spectrum.

Notes

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Thesis Completion

2006

Semester

Spring

Advisor

Sadri, Houman A.

Degree

Bachelor of Arts (B.A.)

College

College of Arts and Sciences

Degree Program

Political Science

Subjects

Dissertations, Academic -- Sciences; Sciences -- Dissertations, Academic; Argentina -- Economic conditions; Argentina -- Politics and government; Costa Rica -- Economic conditions; Costa Rica -- Politics and government; Cuba -- Economic conditions; Cuba -- Politics and government; Political stability -- Latin America

Format

Print

Identifier

DP0022089

Language

English

Access Status

Open Access

Length of Campus-only Access

None

Document Type

Honors in the Major Thesis

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