One theme of Latin American history seems to be a lack of unity due to the inability to define Latin American. There are many divides, not only between the countries, but within the countries as well. The radio seems to act as a small measure to bridge that divide within these nations. Music was a way to represent everyone during a time of the crisis of representation. For example, this national unity comes from the samba in Brazil. The national unity also came from a common distaste for the government. I think the internet acts in a similar way now. Although it does not necessarily unite the people culturally because unlike the ratio, there is a wide range of content on the internet, but American citizens unite using media in times of crisis. No matter where you are, you can sympathize with the victims of police brutality or school shootings. It shows the power technology in uniting a group of people.

It is interesting how Perón gained so much support from the people. In my eyes, his method of leadership seems corrupt and centered upon his sole power. This impression comes from my experience in a federal republic. This leadership technique was evidently quite successful for a while in Argentina. But he had a way of connecting with the people and providing what they really needed. Like the caudillos we looked at a few weeks ago, he was able to stir up emotion in the hearts of the people.

After reading the documents of Evita’s speech, it is not a mystery how the couple rallied the crowds. She gained so much enthusiasm from the crowd that they even convinced her to make a major political and career altering decision. In my opinion, this shows to me the priority of popularity rather than sound political moves. Both Peróns seemed to crave political loyalty. Perón showed this when he purchased loyalty using clientalism. However Dawson’s comment about how everyone thinks that their system of government is the norm made me think again at the federal elections in the U.S. Candidates for presidential election use similar methods to gain support; they use media and make bold promises to the people in return for their vote.

The texts have starkly different perspectives on the renunciamiento. This shows the power of literature in shaping history. It is also important to note the subjectivity of history and how everyone has a bias and a purpose for writing. I wonder why one of the documents chose to leave out the reaction of the crowd in its account of the reunciamiento.