After independence, most South American countries
A. extended voting rights to all men
B. established communist systems with command economies --------
C. were dominated by wealthy landowners
D. shifted from plantation agriculture to small scale farming
A. extended voting rights to all men
After independence, most South American countries underwent various changes. One of the major developments was the extension of voting rights to all men. This was a significant step towards democracy and political inclusion. However, it is important to note that this extension of voting rights did not guarantee equal political power or representation for all individuals.
Option B, establishing communist systems with command economies, was not the prevalent path taken by most South American countries. While there were instances of socialist movements or governments in some countries, such as Chile under Salvador Allende, the majority did not adopt communism as their governing ideology.
Option C, being dominated by wealthy landowners, was a common feature in many South American countries after independence. The elite class, including wealthy land and plantation owners, exerted significant influence over politics, economics, and society. This dominance often resulted in social and economic inequalities.
Option D, shifting from plantation agriculture to small-scale farming, was not a widespread change immediately after independence. Many South American countries continued relying on plantation agriculture, especially for the export of cash crops like sugar, coffee, and cacao. Over time, certain countries did diversify their agricultural sectors and promote small-scale farming, but this transition was not uniform across the entire continent.
In summary, after independence, most South American countries extended voting rights to all men, were dominated by wealthy landowners, did not establish communist systems with command economies, and continued plantation agriculture rather than immediately shifting to small-scale farming.