La DECADA INFAME 1930-1943 (o la RESTAURACIÓN LIBERAL-CONSERVADORA)

The Infamous Decade in Argentina: 1930-1943

Overview of the Infamous Decade

• The "Infamous Decade" refers to the period between 1930 and 1943 in Argentina, characterized by political instability and electoral manipulation.

• This era began with a coup led by General Uriburu on September 6, 1930, marking the first constitutional coup in Argentine history.

Political Context and Opposition

• The Radical Party was a dominant electoral force due to its support from middle and lower sectors, making it difficult for other parties to gain power.

• Nationalist and conservative factions sought power through Uriburu's coup as a response to the perceived corruption of radical democracy.

The Coup of 1930

• General Uriburu's regime aimed to dismantle democratic structures, proposing a corporatist system inspired by fascism, which he believed would eliminate corrupt political parties.

• His government faced opposition from various groups including traditional right-wing parties and discontented military factions due to personalistic governance styles.

Electoral Manipulation

• In the presidential elections of 1931, Agustín Pedro Justo emerged victorious under a coalition called "La Concordancia," which included several right-wing parties while excluding the Radical Party that opted for electoral abstention.

• The ruling coalition resorted to extensive electoral fraud to maintain power against resurgent radical forces led by former president Alvear who returned from exile in 1935.

Conclusion of the Era

Electoral Fraud and Economic Policies in Argentina

The Concept of Patriotic Fraud

• The term "patriotic fraud" is introduced, referring to the military coup that ousted a democratically elected government, allowing for a decade-long rule through electoral fraud.

Economic Context of the 1930s

• The economic policies during Justo's government were influenced by the global crisis starting with the 1929 Wall Street crash, leading to significant challenges in Argentina such as falling product prices and lack of international loans.

State Intervention Measures

• In response to economic difficulties, governments in the 1930s implemented state intervention measures including price regulation boards for essential goods like meat and wine, alongside establishing the Central Bank of Argentina in 1935.

The Roca-Runciman Pact

• A notable event was the Roca-Runciman Pact between Argentina and Great Britain aimed at maintaining trade levels; however, it required Argentina to make significant concessions including tax exemptions on British products and preferential treatment for Anglo-American meatpackers.

Political Changes Leading to 1943 Coup

Political Regime Changes in Argentina

The 1943 Coup d'État

• A political regime change occurred in Argentina when a coup, supported by a faction of the military known as the "Grupo de Oficiales Unidos" (GOU), overthrew President Castillo before June 4, 1943.

• This coup marked the beginning of a new political era in Argentina, leading to significant shifts in governance and policy direction.

• The coup facilitated the rise of influential figures, notably Colonel Juan Perón, who would play a crucial role in shaping Argentine politics.

• Future discussions will explore the events surrounding this coup and how it paved the way for the emergence of early Peronist governments.