Witness History Bolivia’s first indigenous president
Feb 19, 2025
In this enlightening discussion, Álvaro García Linera, Bolivia's former Vice President under Evo Morales, delves into the remarkable ascent of Bolivia's first indigenous president. He shares the emotional impact of this historic election on indigenous communities and discusses the fight against poverty and the complexities of the coca leaf industry. García Linera reflects on the monumental protests that galvanized indigenous empowerment and offers insights into the transformative policies that shaped Bolivia's socio-political landscape during Morales's presidency.
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Evo's Humble Beginnings
- Evo Morales, born into an indigenous Aymara llama farming family, became Bolivia's first indigenous president.
- His upbringing differed from typical Bolivian politicians, having experienced poverty firsthand.
Evo's Rise from Activism
- Evo Morales initially gained prominence through his involvement with the coca leaf growers union.
- This background positioned him to address the impact of the U.S. war on drugs on Bolivian coca farmers.
Impact of Coca Eradication
- The destruction of coca plants impacted farmers like Fernando Villa, for whom coca was the primary income source.
- This destruction fueled anger among indigenous groups already marginalized.