The Political Role of the Latin-American Middle Sectors

Abstract

Since World War I, politically ambitious middle sectors have developed beside those elements that historically constituted the ruling elite in Latin America. To strengthen their political positions, the middle sectors formed alliances with the "popular" elements, particularly urban labor. In the effort to serve the interests of both their own membership and those upon whom they depend for popular support, middle- sector leaders have pursued tactics and objectives which have left strong imprints upon the policies of the republics whose governments they have, at various times, controlled. The mid dle sectors, by the 1950's, had become politically moderate and, thus, exposed themselves to attack, first by the Communists and, later, by fidelistas, followers of Fidel Castro. The politi cal future of the middle sectors will be determined in the 1960's on the bases, probably, of their imaginative leadership and aggressiveness.