LATIN AMERICAN HISTORY1
Chapter 5
1.) According to Eakin, politically the story in Latin America is more
complicated. What does he mean by this statement? (219)
As per the perspective of Eakin, when he had highlighted the aspect of complication
existing in the political sphere of Latin American history, his hints were towards the disorders
that were dominant in the history of Latin America in the period following the independence.
The complexities also ranged from the politics that has been dominated by the conservative
ideals (Eakin).
2.) Define positivism, and explain how it relates to science and “technocrats.” (222)
Positivism refers to the social thoughts of the 19th century America where there has
been a glorification of the scientific knowledge and the rejection of the traditional ideals.
According to the belief, humanity has been placed over the traditional views. The approach of
the positivism was very elitist in its approach, where the proposition to run the state was
ascribed with the group of people scientifically backed known as the ‘technocrats’ (Eakin).
3.) Compare and contrast the liberal Mexican presidencies of Benito Juarez and
Porfirio Diaz. If they both had similar political philosophies, why is one considered a
hero and the other a villain? (223-226)
The president of Mexico, during his realm had brought about the period of reform. As
such the period is also marked by the factors of the civil wars. However, the footstep of the
Juarez was followed by the liberals gaining their control over the political scenario of the
country. His contribution can also be noted in the unification of the liberals. Porfirio Diaz,
followed the steps of Bentio, used the methods of repression and force in order to reinforce a

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