Societies of Fear

Latin America is in the grip of a double challenge - coping with what may be the worst economic crisis since the 1930s while simultaneously consolidating its democratic transition. This collection explores the ongoing legacy of past conflict, violence and terror in all the most important countries of South and Central America and, in particular whether it could continue to thwart economic recovery, social justice and political consensus and stability. The introductory chapter looks at the various forms of violence in present-day Latin America, their underlying causes, and their implications for the reconstruction of civil society and consolidation of democratic governance. Part one examines the recent civil wars in southern Mexico, Central America and Peru, including a look at the extent to which ethnicity has shaped these conflicts. Part two discusses the historical, political and cultural dimensions of conflict and violence in specific national settings - Mexico, Argentina and Colombia. Finally, the book explores the prospects for an enduring transition from dictatorship - in Chile, Brazil, Mexico and Cuba.