The Theory of Populism - A case study of Cardenas (1934-1940) and Peron (1946-1955)

Loinard-Gonzalez, Guillaume

The Theory of Populism - A case study of Cardenas (1934-1940) and Peron (1946-1955)

Author(s)

Loinard-Gonzalez, Guillaume

Date Issued

May 6, 2024

Abstract

In this project, I delve into the emergence and impact of populism as a political ideology within the context of Latin America. My objective is to analyze the main variables that define populism and examine how they were manifested in the region through two significant case studies. Firstly, I will accomplish this by looking at two case studies. Firstly, I will look into the case of Peron in Argentina (1946-1955) and then Cardenas in Mexico (1934-1940) respectively. To boot, I want to look into the socio-political state that both nations were in when they reached the peak of the political world. Moreover, I will examine both leaders as figureheads and whether they embraced the cult-like support they experienced. Furthermore, I want to look at the legacies each of them left and how they are viewed by the literature nowadays. Finally, I will assess the legacies left by Perón and Cárdenas, examining how they are perceived in contemporary literature and their lasting impacts on their respective countries. Chapter 1 delves into the theoretical underpinnings of populism, providing a comprehensive overview of historical contexts and the history of the ideology. Moreover, I will look into the theoretical frameworks of populism and how they changed depending on the region. This chapter sets the stage for a nuanced understanding of populism as a political ideology and practice. Moreover, chapter 2 focuses on the phenomenon of Cardenismo in Mexico, particularly the ascension of Lázaro Cárdenas to the pinnacle of Mexican politics from 1934 to 1940. I will explore the economic, political, and social factors that helped reach power. In this chapter, I will also look at the most relevant events and policies that shaped Cardenismo. Also, I want to look at the legacy of Lazaro Cardenas and how he impacted the Mexican culture and political system. Furthermore, in Chapter 3, the spotlight shifts to Peronism in Argentina, with a meticulous examination of Juan Perón's presidency from 1946 to 1955. This chapter elucidates the multifaceted nature of Peronism as a political movement and ideology, comparing Justicialismo with the theory of populism. By analyzing Perón's policies, political strategies, and socio-economic impacts, this chapter unravels the legacy of Peronism and its lasting influence on Argentine politics and culture. Finally, Chapter 4 serves as the culminating point of this study, offering a comparative analysis of Peronism and Cardenismo. Delving into the divergent paths Perón and Cárdenas took, this chapter explores how each leader portrayed populism respectively. Moreover, I want to look at how their legacies are different. This chapter sheds light on the complexities of populism in Latin America and its enduring relevance in contemporary politics.

Major

International Studies

First Reader(s)

Haywood, Kalé