The Cornered Dictatorship: A History of the Brazilian Military Regime

Introduction

In his book "The Cornered Dictatorship", Elio Gaspari provides a comprehensive and meticulously researched account of the Brazilian military regime that ruled the country from 1964 to 1985. Gaspari draws on a wealth of primary sources, including interviews with key figures from the period, to construct a narrative that is both informative and engaging.

The Rise of the Military

Gaspari begins by tracing the rise of the Brazilian military as a political force. He argues that the military's intervention in politics was the result of a complex set of factors, including the country's history of political instability, the Cold War, and the growing influence of the military in Brazilian society.

The Repressive State

Gaspari then examines the repressive apparatus of the military regime. He describes the widespread use of torture, arbitrary arrests, and censorship, as well as the regime's efforts to control the media and suppress dissent. Gaspari also discusses the role of the United States in supporting the military regime, and the impact of this support on Brazil's human rights record.

The Economic Miracle

Despite the regime's repressive policies, Brazil experienced a period of rapid economic growth during the 1970s. Gaspari argues that this growth was due in part to the regime's authoritarian policies, which allowed for the implementation of unpopular economic reforms. However, Gaspari also points out that the economic miracle was not without its costs, and that it led to increased inequality and environmental degradation.

The Fall of the Regime

Gaspari concludes by examining the factors that led to the fall of the military regime. He argues that the regime's own internal contradictions, as well as the growing pressure from civil society, ultimately led to its collapse. Gaspari also discusses the transition to democracy in Brazil, and the challenges that the country faced in the aftermath of the military regime.

Conclusion

"The Cornered Dictatorship" is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of Brazil and Latin America. Gaspari's book provides a comprehensive and nuanced account of the military regime, and it offers valuable insights into the causes and consequences of authoritarian rule.

Why You Should Read This Book

If you are interested in learning more about the history of Brazil, or if you are simply interested in understanding the dangers of authoritarian rule, then I highly recommend reading "The Cornered Dictatorship". Gaspari's book is a well-written and informative account of a dark period in Brazilian history, and it offers valuable lessons for the present day.