Marxism influence in Latin America...

[R_P_A_S]

I was just sitting here wondering and I don't know if is just me. but does marxism and just general left wing ideology seem to have more of an influence and following in Latin America? It seems that every country has a strong following and one or two groups who opposed their country's neoliberal policies. at least more than any other continent. what do you guys think?

And also why do you think that something that started out in Europe ended up being so much more influential and accepted half across the world. mainly by spanish speaking countries?

Do you guys think that countries like Venezuela, Cuba, Bolivia and Nicaragua should all come together and form an alliance towards socialism and draw others into it? I understand that being so close to the U.S. is a huge problem. but what else is there?

[Ze]

Marxism is known throughout the world. It's equivalent to Einstein's Theory of Relativity. The United States doesnt teach it for the most part and stores like Barnes & Nobles don't carry Marx's writings in a fascist attempt at 'protecting' the public from learning these important theories. South America, especially, has been hardest hit economically and otherwise by United States Imperialism.

[RedLenin]

And also why do you think that something that started out in Europe ended up being so much more influential and accepted half across the world. mainly by spanish speaking countries?
I think this is because the working class in Latin America is home to some of the most exploited workers in the world. The working class is faced with horrid working conditions, long hours, and US imperialism. Capitalism is breaking, and it is breaking where it is most noticeably oppressive and exploitative: Latin America. I think that Marxism, basing itself on the class struggle, is the obvious path for the working class to take toward their emancipation.


Do you guys think that countries like Venezuela, Cuba, Bolivia and Nicaragua should all come together and form an alliance towards socialism and draw others into it?
Yes. But a few things must happen first. The workers of all of these countries must form workers councils, expropriate the bourgeoisie, form workers militias, and take all power into their hands. I think we are getting very close to this in Venezuela. Once this happens, an international federation of worker's states (rule by workers councils) must be formed. As this is being formed, the working class in all of these countries will need to fight civil wars against the reactionary bourgeoisie and imperialist armies. With international solidarity, this task can be made much easier.

[Brownfist]

I think that it also has to do with the some of the popular manifestations of Marxist theory in Latin America in particular, liberation theology. I think that in most parts of Latin America the kinds of atheistic forms of Marxism that we are accustomed to are not usually practiced. But, I also think it has to do with the fact that there have been some successes in Latin America in achieving left-wing governments, even if for short periods of time. This also has to do with the fact that most Latin Americans are very aware of the colonial systems in place, economically, politically and racially. However, in numerous parts of Latin America there also have been huge setbacks in Marxisms popularity, whether it be Chile or Peru.