Populism Essay

Evolution of Populism and La Moral from Modernization

Populism refers to the political philosophy that pits the downtrodden masses against the apathetic ruling elite. La Moral refers to the conformity to the code of conduct set by employers. Modernization is the transformation from a traditional, rural society that primarily relies on agriculture to an urban, industrialized society. The emergence and flourishing of modern society has been inextricably linked with the development of industries, infrastructure and cities. Sociologists and political analysts agree that “urbanization and industrialization were the main causes of populism in Latin America.” (Conniff and Roberts 6)

Populism flourished in Latin America for a few years of the twentieth century due to the changes in the socio-economic structure that discriminated workers based on class and gender. The social, economic, and political conditions that existed in Brazil and Colombia in the early years of the 20th Century created an environment that incubated and ultimately gave birth to populist politics.

The opening and expansion of the North American and European export market caused market and labor reforms to satisfy demand. The huge demand created incentive for the industrial and infrastructure development. Cities such as Rio de Janeiro and Lima in Peru, and Bogota in Colombia benefited from this economic expansion and soon became big industrial towns. The industrial expansion went hand in hand with population growth as workers were needed to work in these industries.

Many citizens migrated into the cities together with their families to find work in the factories. Some of the migrants found life in the city very liberating. The reality, however, was quite grim for most...

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...sions such as devolution of wealth and power. Very few advocated for a radical overhaul of the government structure. Rather, they believed in the principle of free will.

Upon the examination of the brazilian populist movement, the transformation of a society from an agrarian to an industrialized society presented a lot of challenges to the people. The citizens faced a hard time in the transition stages and poverty was rampant. Populist leaders, by empathizing and identifying with the common citizens, gained an almost cultic following among the poor and the middle class. The demise of populist politics in Brazil came through the hands of the military, after the 1964 takeover. Ten years later, the military relaxed its reins and allowed for more public participation. Nevertheless, Populism and La Moral have left their mark in politics, history, economy and social life.