Argentina and the US

The relationship between Argentina and the US seems to become increasingly precarious throughout the Depression, particularly leading into World War II. Consider some of the events discussed throughout the article that shaped the American perception of Argentina in particular. Do they make sense to you? Why or why not?

All we are saying....is give fascism a chance?

So, I won't lie. I always struggled with historical and modern imaginings of fascism. If we go by this definition, honestly, what do we NOT consider to be at least slightly fascist, especially when a country is experiencing an economic-related crisis? Why, when the author of "Depression and Recovery in Argentina" seems to be touting slow but steady recovery, is there still a move to introduce fascist policies to the state? Is there another moment in history (it doesn't matter when or where), that you can recall something along these lines happening? Please, share your examples.

What kind of autocrat are you?

While Peron was not as extreme of an autocrat as Hitler or Mussolini, the shift of Peronism in Argentina's political history still marks a curious transfer of power that is worth examining closely. Indeed, some historians argue that Peron had fascist tendencies, and that Argentina's military was sympathetic towards Nazi Germany. So...what do you think--would it be wrong to call Peron a fascist?

Rallying the Middle Sector

Tonight's reading focus's on the Argentine "middle sector" -- its rise to political prominence by Yrigoyen's (or Irigoyen) election in 1916, and their subsequent removal from power by 1930. Why, if the radicals were so popular in the post WWI era, could they not sustain control during the great depression? Why is Yrigoyen's ousting virtually unopposed by the masses?

The rise and fall(?) of economic nationalism?

Share your thoughts (with some textual substance please....ahem....) about the sources of economic nationalism in Argentina. What global factors influence Argentina to become more nationalistic in its economic policies. To what extent were these policies sustainable once the Depression struck the global market? Finally, why did Argentina turn to a military dictatorship when the US and Canada didn't?

Rallying the Masses, and the tumble thereafter

The Radical party attracted a number of newcomers by Yrigoyen's election in 1916. How had Argentina's politics changed in the previous years to account for this shift? What important industries were developing in Argentina that were still connected to foreign markets, and how did this contribute to economic nationalism? Finally, why was President Yrigoyen ousted by a military coup?

Once again on the brink of war

In 1938 and 1939, the Americas watched horrified as the crises in Europe mounted and war seemed more of an inevitability than possibility. Yet, Canada and the US at first seem to have disparate reactions to this crisis. Based on the reading, what is King's perception of the events in Europe? What are some of the key issues he considers as he attempts to map out Canada's involvement/lack thereof in the war? What is the point of FDR's fireside chat 16? What is he trying to accomplish? How to we connect it to the attitudes in Canada?

How important is attitude?

It is arguable that more has been written about FDR's personality than his actual policies. Also, his life experiences overcoming adversity in many ways made him an ideal leader (even if many of his constituents did not know he could not walk!). What are some key examples of FDR's optimism that stood out to you in the reading, and why? Is optimism FDR's greatest policy?

In a crisis, do we just need a superman?

Reflect after reading about the experiences of the US and Canada and consider if King's second term was any different. Is it the policy or the person that really matters?

FDR, Bennett, and Obama -- Cut from the Same Cloth?

After watching the clips, I am wondering, is the old adage "the more things change, the more they stay the same" relevant here?

I couldn't find a Bennett campaign ad (blame Canada!), but I am curious about what he might have emphasized when he rain in 1935 after drafting his New Deal legislation--what do you think he might have said?  Why?

(Yes, I know we read about FDR, but I am really trying to stress continuity and relevance).

Cause or Symptom?

Post your responses here!  Be sure to indicate which article you read!