The correct answer is A: the Great Depression.
1. During the 1930s, Latin America experienced the negative impact of the Great Depression, a severe worldwide economic downturn that began in 1929. The economic crisis led to widespread unemployment, poverty, and social instability in many countries.
2. Authoritarian regimes found support among the population as they promised stability and order during this tumultuous time. Leaders who presented themselves as strong figures capable of addressing economic hardship and restoring order gained popularity.
3. The Great Depression weakened democratic institutions in Latin America, creating fertile ground for the rise of authoritarian governments. These governments often concentrated power in the hands of a single leader or ruling party, limiting political freedoms and imposing strict control over society.
4. By exploiting the economic turmoil and social unrest caused by the Great Depression, authoritarian leaders were able to solidify their control over their countries. This period marked a significant increase in authoritarianism across Latin America as a response to the challenges posed by the economic crisis.
In summary, the spread of authoritarianism in Latin America during the 1930s was largely driven by the socio-economic repercussions of the Great Depression, which created conditions favorable for the rise of strongman rulers who promised stability and control in a time of crisis.
