Prologue to Peron: Argentina in Depression and War, 1930-1943

The rise of General Juan Domingo Peron in Argentina is examined in this collection of articles by American and Argentine scholars, who identify the symptoms that led to his eleven-year reign and twenty-year cult of Peronismo. The book is part of UC Press' Voices Revived program, which commemorates the mission of the University of California Press to seek out and cultivate the brightest minds and give them voice, reach, and impact.

Format: Hardback
Length: 256 pages
Publication date: 29 April 2022
Publisher: University of California Press

Since 1943, the enigmatic and legendary figure of General Juan Domingo Peron has loomed large over the Argentine Republic. However, until 1930, Argentina was widely celebrated as the epitome of democracy and prosperity on a politically tumultuous and economically underdeveloped continent. The present collection of articles, authored by American and Argentine scholars, delves into the thirteen crucial years that bridged the old Argentina and the new, paving the way for the ascent of one of Latin America's most influential dictators.

In a mere decade marked by depression and war, Argentina's political democracy crumbled, and the landed aristocracy reclaimed power. The traditional relationship between the British and Argentine economies deteriorated, and no viable alternative emerged. A pervasive disillusionment and pessimism swept across society, fostering a fascination among intellectuals with authoritarian ideologies. A renewed nationalistic consciousness manifested itself in films, radio, and popular music, while social and demographic changes created the foundation for a messianic populism.

This volume serves as a comprehensive exploration of the symptoms that ultimately led to the eleven-year reign and twenty-year cult of Peronismo, symptoms that continue to exert a profound influence on the course of events in present-day Argentina. As part of UC Press' Voices Revived program, this title commemorates the University of California Press' commitment to unearthing and nurturing the brightest minds, providing them with a platform to articulate their ideas, reach a wider audience, and make a lasting impact. Drawing from a rich backlist dating back to 1893, Voices Revived employs print-on-demand technology to make high-quality, peer-reviewed scholarship accessible once again. Originally published in 1975, this title remains a valuable contribution to the study of Argentine history and politics.

Weight: 499g
Dimension: 229 x 152 x 20 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9780520358768