| Date | November 2016 | Marks available | 20 | Reference code | 16N.3op2.HL.TZ0.3 |
| Level | Higher level only | Paper | Paper 3 (History of the Americas) | Time zone | TZ0 |
| Command term | Evaluate | Question number | 3 | Adapted from | N/A |
Question
Evaluate the main challenges to the establishment of political systems in the emerging nations of Latin America.
Markscheme
Candidates are required to focus their responses on the problems faced by the newly independent Latin American nations. These challenges could be identified as economic, political or social, although that is not mandatory. The key is to appraise the challenges as they relate to the establishment of governments.
Indicative content
Economic factors
- Some countries started off in debt as a result of loans acquired during the wars of independence.
- Overseas trade had virtually ceased between 1810 and 1826. This, alongside increased military expenditure and difficulties that were experienced when trying to collect taxes, meant that budget deficits increased further.
- Although, after 1830, trade with Europe improved in some areas, local manufacturers were negatively affected by foreign competition.
- The lack of national banking systems and infrastructure, including transportation, communication and access to clean water, was a bar to development.
- The decimation of the male population in some regions and the devastation of economic resources were also problematic.
Political factors
- Candidates may stress that many leaders were unable to enforce liberal constitutions.
- Further, the rise and rule of caudillos and the existence of militarized societies posed a significant challenge.
- Regional political division and disparity both conspired against nation building and led to increased opportunities for the outbreak of civil wars and revolutions.
Social factors
- Social equality remained largely an ideal; there was discrimination against indigenous populations and mestizos, and non-whites only exceptionally reached positions of influence.
- Slavery was not abolished immediately after independence in some countries.
- The uneven distribution of land could be seen to imply that there were no significant social changes.
The above material is an indication of what candidates may elect to write about in their responses. However, the list is not exhaustive and no set answer is required.
Examiners are reminded of the need to apply the markbands that provide the “best fit” to the responses given by candidates and to award credit wherever it is possible to do so.
[20 marks]
