AI-powered
podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Jacobin Radio
Dig: Oligarchy, Empire, Revolution w/ Hilary Goodfriend & Jorge Cuéllar
Nov 3, 2024
Hilary Goodfriend, a postdoctoral researcher at the National Autonomous University of Mexico, and Jorge Cuéllar, a professor at Dartmouth College, dive into the tumultuous history of Central America. They explore the rise of export-crop oligarchies and the consequences of constant U.S. interventions, including the infamous CIA-backed coup in Guatemala. The discussion also touches on revolutionary movements in Nicaragua and El Salvador, the impact of neoliberal policies, and the legacy of American imperialism, revealing a complex tapestry of struggle and resilience.
01:55:28
Episode guests
AI Summary
AI Chapters
Episode notes
Podcast summary created with Snipd AI
Quick takeaways
- The historical emergence of oligarchies in Central America was driven by colonial legacies, violence against indigenous groups, and U.S. intervention.
- U.S.-backed coups and military strategies during the Cold War devastated leftist movements, intensifying civil conflicts and human rights abuses.
Deep dives
Oligarchical Rule and U.S. Intervention in Central America
Spanish colonialism significantly shaped the economic and political landscape of Central America, creating a heavily stratified society centered around a small elite. This oligarchy, primarily descendants of the colonizers, maintained their dominance through oppressive labor regimes and violence against indigenous populations. The expansion of American capital in the 19th century further cemented these structures, with U.S. intervention and interests guiding local politics. For example, William Walker, an American mercenary, invaded Nicaragua and briefly established himself as ruler, illustrating the overlapping interests between local elites and foreign powers.
Get the Snipd
podcast app
Unlock the knowledge in podcasts with the podcast player of the future.
AI-powered
Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode
Save any
moment
Hear something you like? Tap your headphones to save it with AI-generated key takeaways
Share
& Export
Send highlights to Twitter, WhatsApp or export them to Notion, Readwise & more
AI-powered
podcast player
Listen to all your favourite podcasts with AI-powered features
Discover
highlights
Listen to the best highlights from the podcasts you love and dive into the full episode