Date of Completion
2015
Thesis Type
College of Arts and Science Honors
Department
History
First Advisor
Sarah Osten
Keywords
neoliberalism, nationalization, agrarian reform, structural adjustment, political history, Latin America
Abstract
This investigation explores Bolivia’s shift towards neoliberalism following the Bolivian National Revolution of 1952 by examining the seemingly drastic change in political platform that Víctor Paz Estenssoro displayed during his presidential career (1952-1956, 1960-1964, 1964, 1985-1989). An analysis of three of Paz’s policies: the nationalization of the tin mines (1952), the Agrarian Reform Act (1953), and the New Economic Policy or “Decree 21060” (1985) demonstrates that Paz did not undergo any sort of radical change but rather he made practical decisions that responded to the social, political, economic conditions within Bolivia and internationally. Understanding Paz’s career provides an opportunity to observe the larger influences that shaped 20th century Bolivian history.
Recommended Citation
Cubero, Andria Gail, "Bolivia's Path to Neoliberalism: An Examination of the Presidential Career of Víctor Paz Estenssoro (1952-1989)" (2015). UVM College of Arts and Sciences College Honors Theses. 9.
https://scholarworks.uvm.edu/castheses/9