Analyze the argument that high levels of inequality have led to political instability in Latin America.(1 point)

Responses

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.
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.
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.
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 valid. The persistence of an elite social group controlling resources and institutions, inherited from colonial times, has perpetuated unequal distribution of wealth and power. This leads to a lack of representation and attention to the needs of the broader population, fueling social unrest and political instability. Additionally, economic growth focused on industries that do not provide adequate, well-paid employment opportunities exacerbates inequality and social discontent. As a result, discontent with unequal social and economic structures can lead to political upheaval and instability in the region.