“Social unrest was the most significant reason for the failure of elected leaders in Latin America.” Discuss.

The question requires that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that social unrest was the most significant reason for the failure of elected leaders in Latin America. Candidates may refer to different social movements that could encompass political parties, minorities, left- or right-wing movements, etc. Candidates may also refer to the banning of popular political parties that led to social conflicts between their supporters and the government. Some may refer to social unrest led by minorities and/or groups that were disenfranchised like indigenous populations and peasants, etc. Candidates may challenge the statement by considering that the main problem elected leaders faced was their illegitimacy, particularly in those cases where popular parties or politicians were disqualified from elections. Candidates may also refer to unsolved economic problems as the main challenge faced by elected leaders. During this period, the influence of the Cold War and the interventions of the US and USSR also encouraged civilian demonstrations and military rebellions that undermined democracy and elected leaders. Candidates’ opinions or conclusions will be presented clearly and supported by appropriate evidence.

The question required that candidates offer a considered and balanced review of the statement that social unrest was the most significant reason for the failure of elected leaders in Latin America. This was a rather popular choice and, in some cases, allowed candidates to apply knowledge of their own national histories. Quality was rather uneven, but most responses centered on one case study. Uruguay and Chile were common examples.