Democracy in Latin America examines the processes of democratization in Latin America over the past twenty years. It provides a comprehensive analysis of the issues inherent in the move toward democracy--including elections, culture, representation, poverty, and criminality. Organized thematically, with a unique historical perspective, the book focuses on six paradigmatic case studies in the region: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico, Nicaragua, and Venezuela.

Preface Tables Figures Maps Introduction: Dimensions of Democracy PART I. Historical Perspectives, 1900-2000 1. Cycles of Electoral Democracy 2. Transitions and Continuities 3. The Military: Heading for the Exits? 4. Global Contexts, International Forces PART II. The Electoral Arena 5. Exploring Institutional Alternatives: Presidentialism or Parliamentarism? 6. Varieties of Presidentialism 7. Elections: Voters, Winners, Losers PART III. Qualities of Democracy 8. State Capacity and Policy Performance 9. Democracy and Social Equity 10. Freedoms, Rights, and Illiberal Democracy 11. The People's Verdict 12. The Taming of Democracy Epilogue: The Challenge of Democracy Appendices 1. Classification of Electoral Regimes, 1900-2000

Peter H. SmithProfessor of Political Science and Director of the Latin American Studies Program, University of California at San Diego