Transformation of Argentina: What We No Longer See
The journey of Argentina is a tale of transformation, often marked by the ebb and flow of social progress and economic decline. What are the things you no longer see in Argentina?
Social Progress and Middle Class Erosion
Ernesto's observations speak to a time 1930s to 1970s where society valued social progress and education. People with low incomes did not face the pain of shamtowns as frequently; their size and number had not grown significantly. However, under the progressive policies of the Peronist party, these dynamics changed.
The Peronist movement, as earnestly intended, aimed to elevate the lower class to the middle class. Despite these good intentions, the socio-economic transformations brought about by Peronist governance and subsequent dictatorships had unforeseen consequences. Today, Argentina ranks 87th globally in terms of GDP, a significant fall from its previous 6th position in just seventy years.
Current Generations and Dependency
Today, we see substantial changes. Three generations now rely on the state for income, primarily because they can't find jobs. These people form the backbone of current social movements, disrupting daily life in Buenos Aires almost twice a week. This dependency is not merely economic; it's a loss of personal and social pride in earning one's own living.
The narrative has shifted. Earning a salary and supporting one's family is now seen as an undue burden, resulting in the derogatory term pelotudo (stupid) for those who follow societal rules and work hard. The re-establishment of pride in earning one's own living is crucial, moving beyond handouts and fostering a culture of self-reliance.
Latin America’s Relinquishment of Prestige
Argentina’s fall from grace is evident in the dissolution of the middle class and the rise of dependency. Once a cornerstone of the nation, the middle class with its education and charm has eroded. Today, Argentina is often referred to as a banana republic, a far cry from its earlier status as the Europe of South America.
The Legacy of Peronism
Peronism, with its promises of socioeconomic transformation, inadvertently contributed to the current state of Argentina. The philosophy of making people disappear, as seen during the Dirty War, was a dark chapter that added to the societal pain and loss of identity.
Estanislao Deloserratas' observations highlight the human cost of these changes. While Peronism aimed to equalize wealth and empower the lower class, the reality was a deterioration of social structures and a loss of personal integrity.
Conclusion
The transformation of Argentina is a complex narrative. While it has seen moments of progress, the current state of dependency and a loss of pride in earning a living is a stark reminder of the need for cultural and economic renewal. Argentina, once a hopeful society, now faces significant challenges but holds the potential for a brighter future if it can rediscover its work ethic and pride in self-sufficiency.