Cycles of civil-military relations in Argentina : a framework of analysis

Abstract

In 2003, the Argentine Republic commemorated twenty years of uninterrupted democracy, the longest period since the installation of the secret ballot and universal suffrage in 1916. For the first time in Argentine history, both civilians and the military seem to dismiss the option of a military intervention as a viable solution to a political crisis. However, the Argentine political system suffered constant instability and uncertainty during much of the 20th century. From 1862 to 1930, the country had 17 presidents or approximately one every four years. Between 1930 and 1982, it averaged one president every two years. Moreover, from 1930 to 1983 there were six successful military interventions and many more coup attempts.1 Nevertheless, in 1983 began an era of democratic rule that has persisted until the present.