I find it very helpful how Dawson will define terms in a way that he will be discussing them. For example, he defines “revolution” in a way different from what I have ever heard. When I think of “revolution,” I think of a period of time of drastic change: a time of emancipation for specific group people. In the beginning of the conversation with Dawson, he states that “Revolution is a claim of ownership on history.” I find this to be very interesting along with his next statement, that “revolution” is used to define  “an attempt to shape a view of the past that organizes power in the present.” What exactly does he mean by this statement? Are we unable to locate revolution in during its time? Do we need to be in history’s hindsight to label “revolution.”

Anyways, on to something else. It is very strange to note that one’s power may be detrimental to another person or persons. As one gains power, they often strive for more. Noticing rapid development in surrounding countries, leaders feel the need to stay competitive and out of the periphery of surrounding countries. They do so by attempting to build a flourishing economy and by keeping up with new and modern infrastructure (railways, markets, education, etc.). As growth would occurred in certain countries, elites would flourish, widening the social gap. The richer elites would get, the poorer the peasant would get. This inequality often lead to violence, found in Latin America.

Lastly, I would like to mention Argentina. I find their ability to attract such a large number of immigrants crucial to their working class. It is quite interesting how they did not give these immigrants certain rights due to the facts that they “spoke foreign tongues, ate alien food, did not celebrate the national traditions or owe any loyalty to Argentina.” Argentines were afraid of losing their jobs to immigrants, which is the same argument some Americans tend to have in the bordering states with Mexico. Some Americans believe that a reason for tightening the border is that illegal immigrants from Mexicans are stealing jobs from American citizens. Although this may be an issue for some Americans, I have a difficult time believing that this is a crucial reason for tightening the border.