USA and Latin America: International Relations | Socioemotional Summary

Objectives

1. Describe the main relationships of dependency, conflict, and partnership between the USA and Latin America.

2. Identify and understand the emotions and motivations of different historical actors in specific events of these relationships.

3. Develop the ability to critically analyze the impacts of these relationships for both sides.

Contextualization

Did you know that the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962 nearly led the world to a nuclear conflict?  It was one of the tensest moments of the Cold War, with leaders like John F. Kennedy and Fidel Castro making critical decisions that shaped history. Understanding the relations between the USA and Latin America is not just about politics and economics, but also about the emotions and motivations of the leaders involved. Let's explore this fascinating theme and develop our empathy and social awareness at the same time!

Important Topics

Dependency Relations

The dependency relations between the USA and Latin America have deep roots, often involving economic and political issues. Throughout history, Latin America has depended on exports of raw materials to the USA and the import of American manufactured goods. This economic imbalance often resulted in a form of neocolonialism, where Latin American countries found themselves trapped in a web of dependency on American markets.

• ➡️ Economic Imperialism: The USA often used its economic power to politically influence Latin American countries.

• ➡️ Neocolonialism: Even after political independence, many countries in Latin America remained trapped in an economic dependency on the USA.

• ➡️ Exports and Imports: The economy of many Latin American countries heavily relied on exporting raw materials and importing manufactured goods from the USA, maintaining a cycle of dependency.

Historical Conflicts

Conflicts between the USA and Latin America varied from direct military interventions to tense diplomatic disputes. A crucial example is the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962, where the USA and the Soviet Union nearly triggered a nuclear war. These conflicts were often fueled by a mix of fear, power, and economic interests, and had lasting impacts on international relations in the region.

•  Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962: One of the tensest moments of the Cold War, nearly leading to a nuclear conflict between the USA and the Soviet Union, with Cuba in the middle.

•  Military Interventions: Examples include the American invasion of Panama in 1989 and several interventions during the Cold War.

•  Long-Term Consequences: These conflicts often resulted in lasting distrust and resentment between Latin American countries and the USA.

Partnerships and Cooperation

Despite the conflicts, there were also moments of cooperation and partnership between the USA and Latin America. Programs like the Alliance for Progress and free trade agreements like NAFTA exemplify attempts to build more balanced economic and diplomatic relations. However, these partnerships also have their criticisms, especially when it is perceived that they disproportionately benefit one party.

• 欄 Alliance for Progress: A program initiated by President John F. Kennedy to strengthen economic and social relations in Latin America.

• 欄 NAFTA: The North American Free Trade Agreement, which includes the USA, Canada, and Mexico, and its impact on Latin American economies.

• 欄 Benefits and Challenges: Although these partnerships have brought economic benefits, they have also raised questions about inequality and ongoing dependency.

Key Terms

• International Relations

• Economic Dependency

• Economic Imperialism

• Neocolonialism

• Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962

• Alliance for Progress

• NAFTA

To Reflect

• 1️⃣ How do you think the emotions of political leaders during the Cuban Missile Crisis influenced their decisions? Consider how fear, anxiety, and the pursuit of power may have played a role.

• 2️⃣ What are the socio-emotional impacts of living in a country economically dependent on another? How might this affect self-esteem and national identity?

• 3️⃣ In what moments of your life have you felt in a dependency or conflict relationship? How did you deal with those emotions, and what could you learn from history to manage these situations more effectively?

Important Conclusions

•  The relationships between the USA and Latin America are complex, filled with economic dependency, historical conflicts, and strategic partnerships.

•  Analyzing the emotions and motivations of historical leaders helps us develop empathy and a deeper understanding of events.

•  Studying these relationships allows us to reflect on social and economic impacts, not just of the past, but also of the present and future.

Impact on Society

The international relations between the USA and Latin America continue to impact our daily lives. Trade between these countries influences the price and availability of products we use daily, from food to technology. Moreover, immigration issues and border policies remain relevant topics, with profound social and economic implications.

 On an emotional level, learning about these histories can help us better understand the feelings of insecurity, injustice, and resilience that many individuals face. By recognizing the emotions of past leaders and their motivations, we can become more empathetic and aware of the complexities of the world we live in. Remembering that history is made by people like us, with fears and aspirations, can inspire us to take more informed and compassionate actions.

Dealing with Emotions

律‍♂️ To practice the RULER method at home, start by reflecting on a recent event that made you anxious or worried. Recognize the emotions you felt. Next, try to understand why you felt that way and what the consequences of those emotions were. Name the emotions correctly: was it fear, nervousness, frustration? Express your emotions appropriately, perhaps by writing in a journal or talking to a friend. Finally, think of ways to regulate those emotions, possibly by practicing breathing techniques or meditation. This will help you apply the knowledge gained from studying international relations to your own emotional life.

Study Tips

•  Revisit your notes: Organize your class notes and highlight key points about the relationships between the USA and Latin America for review.

•  Research more about the Cuban Missile Crisis of 1962: Watch documentaries and read articles for a deeper understanding of this crucial event.

•  Join discussion groups: Talking about the topic with classmates or online forums can enrich your understanding and bring new perspectives.