La Violencia En Colombia - Un Pequeño Resumen

The Period of Violence in Colombia

Overview of the Crisis (1946-1958)

• The period known as "La Violencia" occurred between 1946 and 1958, marked by a severe social and political crisis in Colombia. The assassination of liberal leader Jorge Eliécer Gaitán in 1948 triggered widespread unrest leading to civil conflict.

Characteristics of La Violencia

• This era was characterized by political persecution and civil war primarily between liberals and conservatives, resulting in an estimated 300,000 deaths. Additionally, many rural peasants were displaced as they fled to cities seeking safety.

Urbanization Trends

• As a consequence of displacement, Colombia transitioned from an agrarian society to an urban one; the urban population rose from 42% in 1946 to 53% by 1959, reaching approximately 74.3% by 2005. Regions previously agricultural were acquired cheaply by industrialists during this time.

Economic Impact on Displaced Populations

• Displaced campesinos became wage laborers on highly productive estates established during this period. Despite industrial growth, the economic benefits did not extend to the working class, who faced worsening poverty and inadequate wages for their needs.

Political Changes and Guerrilla Movements