Analyze the argument that high levels of inequality have
led to political instability in Latin America. (1 point)
An elite social group with its roots in the power of the
Spanish, Portuguese, and French colonial elite still
controls much of the region's resources and money.
This causes institutions to look after the needs of
this elite group, rather than all of a country’s
population.
Throughout the twentieth century, economic growth
was focused on institutions, such as plantations, that
do not supply a lot of well-paid employment. The
region has fewer well-paid jobs available than other
regions.
Over time, Latin America’s communist economic and
social policies have cooled. For example, many
Latin Americans are now able to own private
businesses, which was not allowed in the past.
In the middle of the twentieth century, Cuba
appeared to be doing quite well. It was growing
economically and socially. By the 1950s, however, it
was no longer doing so well
The argument that high levels of inequality have led to political instability in Latin America is supported by the fact that a small elite group controls much of the region's resources and money. This elite group, which has its roots in the colonial elite, influences institutions to prioritize their needs over those of the general population. This perpetuates inequality and contributes to social unrest and political instability.
Additionally, the focus on economic growth in industries like plantations has led to a lack of well-paid job opportunities in the region. This lack of economic opportunity exacerbates inequality and could further fuel political instability as people become disgruntled with their economic situation.
Furthermore, the shift away from communist economic policies in Latin America has not necessarily improved the situation, as the benefits of privatization and private business ownership are not evenly distributed. This could lead to increased inequality and potentially more political unrest in the future.
The example of Cuba's economic decline in the 1950s serves as a cautionary tale of what can happen when economic inequality is allowed to persist. If Latin American countries do not address the root causes of inequality and prioritize the needs of all their citizens, continued political instability could be a likely outcome.
answer the question
High levels of inequality in Latin America have indeed contributed to political instability in the region. The influence of an elite group that controls much of the region's resources and money, stemming from colonial roots, has led institutions to prioritize the needs of this group over the broader population. This perpetuates inequality and fosters discontent among the marginalized majority.
Moreover, the concentration of economic growth in industries like plantations has resulted in a lack of well-paid job opportunities, further widening the wealth gap and fueling social unrest. The shift towards privatization and private business ownership in the region has not effectively addressed inequality, as the benefits are not equally distributed among the population.
The economic decline of Cuba in the 1950s serves as a cautionary example of the consequences of growing inequality. If Latin American countries do not address the unequal distribution of resources and opportunities, political instability is likely to persist as marginalized groups seek to address their grievances. Ultimately, addressing inequality should be a priority to promote stability and sustainable development in the region.