Key Concepts: Democracy, illiberal democracy, role of the military, historical influences on Latin American development, salience of relations with the U.S.

Discussion Topic: Our readings for these first two weeks address many of the factors that have complicated attempts to institutionalize democracy in Latin America. Thinking specifically about the role of the military, what factors allowed the military to enter into and consolidate power in many of these countries during the 20th century? Given that several countries in the region still give their militaries a role in maintaining domestic law and order, do you think this presents a risk to today’s democratic regimes? Why or why not?