Open Veins of Latin America

Synopsis

First published in 1973 as Las Venas Abiertas de AmTrica Latina by Siglo XXI Editores, Mexico, this analysis of the effects and causes of capitalist underdevelopment in Latin America presents a clear, passionate account of 500 years of Latin American history, written with drama, humor, and compassion. For general readers. Annotation c. by Book News

Summary

Chapter 1: The Colonial Era

* Summary: Explores the European colonization of Latin America, highlighting the extraction of resources, exploitation of labor, and suppression of indigenous cultures.
* Real Example: The Spanish conquistadors' plundering of Inca gold and silver, leading to the decimation of the indigenous population and the collapse of the Inca Empire.

Chapter 2: The Independence Era

* Summary: Discusses the revolutions that led to the independence of Latin American nations but notes that these revolutions did not fundamentally alter the economic dependence on European powers.
* Real Example: The Haitian Revolution (1791-1804), which overthrew French colonial rule but resulted in Haiti being saddled with massive debts to former slave owners in France.

Chapter 3: The Neocolonial Era

* Summary: Analyzes the rise of foreign investment and control in Latin America, particularly from the United States, leading to the exploitation of natural resources and the impoverishment of local populations.
* Real Example: The United Fruit Company's domination of the banana industry in Central America, resulting in widespread environmental degradation and labor abuses.

Chapter 4: The Imperialist Era

* Summary: Argues that the United States emerged as the dominant imperial power in Latin America, using military interventions and economic pressure to maintain its influence and control.
* Real Example: The Spanish-American War (1898), which resulted in the United States acquiring control of Puerto Rico, Cuba, and the Philippines, and expanded its sphere of influence in the region.

Chapter 5: The Modern Era

* Summary: Examines the post-World War II era, marked by the rise of multinational corporations and the continued drain of resources from Latin America.
* Real Example: The extraction of petroleum in Venezuela by foreign oil companies, leading to environmental pollution and social inequality despite the country's vast oil reserves.

Chapter 6: The Future of Latin America

* Summary: Offers a perspective on the challenges and opportunities facing Latin America, emphasizing the need for economic and social justice, self-determination, and the end of foreign exploitation.
* Real Example: The formation of regional organizations like the Union of South American Nations (UNASUR) to promote cooperation and reduce dependency on external powers.