Recessions and Rebellions in Argentina, 1870-1970

Abstract

THE REVOLUTION of September 5, 1930, is generally considered a turning point in Argentine political development because it marked the first in a long series of military coups. During the fifty years prior to the revolution of 1930, there was not a single successful rebellion against the central government; national politics were characterized by civilian leadership and the regular constitutional change of presidents.' In contrast, since 1930 no civilian elected to the presidency has successfully completed a full term of office. Despite this remarkable change, it would be inaccurate to conclude that the use of force appears in Argentine politics only during the post-1930 years. Between 1870 and 1930 there were eight instances of armed rebellions against the central government, as well as various uprisings against local government. From 1930 to 1970 an additional i8 rebellions took place, making a total of 26. These are listed chronologically in Table 1.2 Armed rebellions serve as a useful starting point for examining political change in Argentina. As historical events, rebellions are relatively easy to pinpoint; at any given moment there either is or is not an armed rebellion under way, and its existence as an historical fact is not questioned.3 Rebellions are important for many reasons, not