Argentina 1920s-1930s: Society, Politics & Economic Crisis

Argentinian Societal Shifts

Middle Class Consolidation: The Golden Age

Argentinian society underwent significant changes. The urban population increased, leading to the consolidation of the middle class. Buenos Aires experienced substantial growth, and new cities emerged. Technology was introduced into rural work, although many areas in the north saw little change. Workers sought to improve their living conditions. State growth, economic prosperity, and advances in the education system during the 1920s contributed to the formation of the middle classes. This period is often referred to as the Golden Age.

Society Amidst Crisis

The industrialization process and the national crisis led to the displacement of workers, causing migration to cities. These workers found employment in factories, contributing to the growth of Greater Buenos Aires. Socialists and Communists competed for control of the General Confederation of Labour (CGT). The national crisis during this time was profound.

The 1930 Crisis: Coup & Conservative Rule

The democratic advancements under the Radical governments were not well-received by powerful conservative and economic groups, who were wary of new figures entering positions of power. Opposition groups mobilized against the Radical government of Hipólito Yrigoyen.

During Yrigoyen's second term, Argentina faced the severe economic crisis triggered by the 1929 New York stock market crash, leading into the Great Depression and a period of international economic hardship.

The Path to the 1930 Coup

Criticism mounted against the Yrigoyen government, aiming to destabilize it. Opposition forces united, including:

• Nationalists
• Conservative Radicals (antipersonalistas)
• Independent Socialists

General José Félix Uriburu was chosen to lead the 1930 Coup.

Post-Uriburu Transition: Agustín P. Justo

Following Uriburu's failure, Agustín P. Justo took charge and convened the opposition forces.

The Concordancia Alliance

The Concordancia was an alliance formed by conservative sectors, anti-personalist Radicals, and independent Socialists. This alliance controlled the government, restoring power through practices including electoral fraud. This period became known as the Infamous Decade, characterized by electoral fraud and privileges favouring the elite.

Argentina's Response to the 1930s Crisis

Argentina's economy suffered significantly during the 1930s crisis. The 1929 crash severely impacted the economies of the USA and Europe. Countries stopped importing Argentinian goods to protect their own economies, hindering Argentina's export-led model.

In response, Vice President Julio Argentino Roca (Jr.) traveled to Britain in 1933 and signed the Roca-Runciman Pact. This treaty aimed to secure Britain's continued purchase of Argentinian meat in exchange for significant trade concessions to Britain. Other measures taken included the creation of the Central Bank, regulatory boards for grains and meats, and efforts to reduce imports.