Synopses & Reviews
A clear and balanced presentation of the dilemmas associated with each of the four nations. A skillful cultural framework is provided in the first chapter, which serves as an overview. Foreign AffairS≪/i>
A fine study. Anderson's reputation as a scholar and a Latin Americanist will be enhanced when this study has time to make its imprint. American Political Science Review
This new volume provides an up-to-date survey of the Central American states involved in the current conflict. While several studies of the individual countries in the region have appeared, there have been no recent attempts at a synthesis of the problems of the area. Politics in Central America fills this gap, analyzing the roots of the current crisis and suggesting solutions to the problems of the region. The author's chief assertion is that the roots of the problems in Central America are not to be found in the East-West struggle but in the competition within each country for control of the scarce natural resources. This crisis in Central America calls for drastic and economic changes. The key question, Anderson claims, is whether or not these changes can be brought about within a democratic framework.
Review
A fine study. Anderson's reputation as a scholar and a Latin Americanist will be enhanced when this study has time to make its imprint.American Political Science
Synopsis
"A clear and balanced presentation of the dilemmas associated with each of the four nations. A skillful cultural framework is provided in the first chapter, which serves as an overview." Foreign Affairs "A fine study. Anderson's reputation as a scholar and a Latin Americanist will be enhanced when this study has time to make its imprint." American Political Science Review
About the Author
THOMAS P. ANDERSON is Professor of History, Eastern Connecticut State University.
Table of Contents
A Social and Political Overview
Guatemala
Guatemala: The Revolution That Failed
Guatemala: A Grim, Complex War
Guatemala: Coups and Elections
Guatemala Analysis: The More Things Change
El Salvador
El Salvador: 50 Years of Solitude
El Salvador: The Junta de Chompipes and Afterward
El Salvador: The Time of Troubles
El Salvador Analysis: Contradictions and Ambiguities
Honduras
Honduras: The Essential Banana Republic
Honduras: From Coup to Election
Honduras: The Eye of the Storm
Honduras Analysis: Illusion of Progress
Nicaragua
Nicaragua: The Somoza Era
Nicaragua: The Red and the Black
Nicaragua Besieged
Nicaragua Analysis: The Paradoxical Revolution
Conclusions: Arms and the Land
Appendix
Bibliography
Index