Word: caudillo
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Dates: during 1980-1989
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...Duarte no favor by emphasizing the fight against Communist guerrillas instead of reinforcing his agenda for reconciliation, economic growth and social reform. Washington also held Duarte -- and others in Central America -- to the pluralistic standards of North America at a time when the Latin tradition of the caudillo, or strongman, might have proved more effective. "The U.S. wants to use the rules of Anglo- Saxon culture to bring about changes in Latin culture," says Emilio Alvarez, an ophthalmologist in Managua. "It hasn't worked, and it won't work...
Using the powers available only to El Caudillo's chosen successor, Juan Carlos moved cautiously by approaching the moderates of Spain. He slowly replaced Franco's highest appointees with what he called "the civilized right." He invited leaders of the outlawed Communist and Socialist parties to dinner. Assistant Professor of Government Terry Karl, a specialist in that process, says. "It's rare to find a figure that commands that kind of respect who will throw his weight behind the democratic transition...