Modern Latin America

(Hist. 232)

Colloquium on 19^th Century Caudillos

A caudillo is a leader who takes power with the support of the military and establishes himself through charismatic qualities. Latin America has had many caudillos in both the 19^th and 20^th centuries. Among the most notable 19^th century caudillos were Antonio López de Santa Ana and Benito Juarez in Mexico, José Antonio Paez in Venezuela, Juan Manuel de Rosas in Argentina, Rafael Carreras in Guatemala and William Walker in Nicaragua. Read the articles about at least TWO caudillos and then answer the following questions. Each answer should be ONE complete page and contain quotes and specific examples from the readings.

Santa Anna:

Juarez:

Paez:

Rosas:

Carreras:

Walker:

ANSWER EACH of the following questions in a one-page response, using the TWO caudillos you read about:

1. What did these individuals do that defines them as a caudillo? Describe specific events in the career of each and explain how each one illustrates the qualities of a caudillo.

2. To what extent did these individuals benefit their country? Give specific examples of how each helped build up or develop his country.

3. To what extent did these individuals harm their country? Give specific examples of how the actions of each weakened his country or harmed individuals..

4. What you see in these men that relates to issues of human rights?

Turn in your answers on the day due and come prepared to participate in a class discussion, which will be a percentage of your grade.