The Invasion of Latin America: How the United States Crushed Democracy in the Southern Cone

A Masterpiece of Investigative Journalism

In his groundbreaking book, The Invasion of Latin America, John Gerassi provides a meticulously researched and passionately argued account of how the United States government systematically undermined democracy in Latin America during the Cold War. Drawing on a wealth of declassified documents and interviews with key players, Gerassi exposes the covert operations, military interventions, and economic manipulations that the United States employed to maintain its dominance over the region.

A History of Imperialism and Exploitation

Gerassi begins by tracing the history of US intervention in Latin America, from the Monroe Doctrine to the Spanish-American War. He shows how the United States has long viewed Latin America as its own backyard, a source of cheap labor and raw materials, and a strategic buffer against potential rivals. This history of imperialism and exploitation laid the foundation for the more aggressive policies of the Cold War era.

The Cold War and the National Security State

With the onset of the Cold War, the United States became increasingly concerned about the spread of communism in Latin America. In response, the US government adopted a policy of containment, which aimed to prevent the spread of communism by any means necessary. This policy led to a series of covert operations, military interventions, and economic sanctions that devastated Latin America.

The Case Studies: Chile, Argentina, and Uruguay

Gerassi provides detailed case studies of three countries that were particularly hard-hit by US intervention: Chile, Argentina, and Uruguay. In Chile, the United States played a key role in the overthrow of the democratically elected government of Salvador Allende in 1973. In Argentina, the US supported the brutal military dictatorship of Jorge Rafael Videla, which ruled from 1976 to 1983. In Uruguay, the US backed a military-civilian dictatorship that lasted from 1973 to 1985.

The Human Cost of Intervention

Gerassi's book is not just a dry recitation of facts and figures. He brings the human cost of US intervention to life through the stories of individual victims. We meet the families of the disappeared, the survivors of torture, and the refugees who were forced to flee their homes. These stories are a powerful reminder of the devastating impact of US policy on the people of Latin America.

A Call to Action

The Invasion of Latin America is a powerful indictment of US foreign policy in Latin America. Gerassi's book is a must-read for anyone who wants to understand the history of the region and the role that the United States has played in shaping it. It is also a call to action for those who believe in democracy, human rights, and social justice.

Why You Should Buy This Book

The Invasion of Latin America is a powerful, well-researched, and passionately argued book that is essential reading for anyone interested in Latin American history, US foreign policy, or the struggle for democracy and human rights. Gerassi's book is a wake-up call that exposes the dark side of US history and challenges us to confront the legacy of imperialism and exploitation.