Rhetorical Analysis Of Angostura Address By Simón Bolivar

The 19th century was characterized by the spread of democratic ideals throughout the world. Latin American countries were no exception to this movement as democracy’s egalitarian promises inspired citizens throughout the region. While these possibilities inspired metropolitan and rural people alike, they also threatened the politicians and wealthy elite who had enjoyed longstanding political control. As a result of this divide, Latin American countries consistently struggled with the transition to democracy, as few in power were willing to relinquish their authority. However, in a half-hearted attempt to prevent uprisings and gain support, many of those competing for power began to support democratic changes. Ultimately, though, they failed

The disconnect between the democratic ideals that politicians promised, and those that they truly delivered was highlighted in Simón Bolivar’s Angostura Address. In this address, Bolivar worked to convince the legislators of Venezuela as to how they should organize the new government. He starts his speech with inspiring rhetoric about the prospect of creating a unified and sovereign country. This is evidenced when he remarks that Venezuela should be, “a government based on the sovereignty of the people, one that abolishes slavery, preserves civil liberties, maintains separation of powers, and forever banishes monarchy and special privileges.” However, Bolivar reveals his true intentions only sentences later when discussing the framework for the new government. He notes that he supports the creation of a hereditary senate as it, “would naturally support the authorities against the masses

Those in Mexico’s central government viewed the spread of democracy as challenge to their power and fought against it. This was evidenced in the fact that, “beginning in the mid-1830’s the central government undermined municipal liberty by replacing local officials with state-appointed ones…increasing federal taxes by 40% and thereby driving many townships into bankruptcy.” These policies were intended to limit the power of regional governments and politicians. Rather than support the will of the people, Mexico’s central government sent a clear message that it no longer respected their opinion. Further, many incumbent politicians were wealthy elite who felt threatened because, after agreeing to elections, their lack of support was exposed. This was demonstrated in Oaxaca when, “an Indian and mestizo artisan were elected to the town council, and hence the municipal office was no longer a marker of exclusive status.” However, “barely six months later Fernando VII repudiated the constitution and overturned all elections held under it.” The actions of the incumbent politicians showed that they only supported democracy if it could keep them in power. When this failed, their selfish intentions were revealed as the elite began to actively belittle the lower-class politicians who threatened