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Peru

Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025
Written by the Fiveable Content Team • Last updated September 2025

Definition

Peru is a country located in western South America, bordered by Ecuador, Colombia, Brazil, Bolivia, Chile, and the Pacific Ocean. In the context of modern history, Peru is significant for its role as a point of contact between the Cold War dynamics of the Soviet Union and China, particularly during the period of the Sino-Soviet Split where ideological differences began to surface between these two communist giants.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. During the Cold War, Peru was influenced by both Soviet and Chinese communism, leading to a unique political landscape characterized by various leftist movements.
  2. The Sino-Soviet Split affected Peru's communist parties, creating divisions as some aligned with Maoist ideology while others remained loyal to the Soviet model.
  3. Peru experienced significant political turmoil during the 1960s and 1970s, with military coups and leftist insurgencies emerging partly due to influences from the global communist movement.
  4. The Shining Path, a Maoist guerilla group in Peru, emerged in the 1980s, drawing inspiration from China's revolutionary movements and contributing to violent conflict in the country.
  5. Peru's foreign policy during this era was shaped by the tensions between the USSR and China, as it sought to navigate relations with both powers while maintaining its own sovereignty.

Review Questions

  • How did the Sino-Soviet Split influence leftist movements in Peru during the Cold War?
    • The Sino-Soviet Split led to ideological divisions within Peru's leftist movements as various factions began aligning with either Soviet or Chinese communist ideologies. This split created a fragmented political landscape where some groups embraced Maoism while others remained loyal to traditional Marxist-Leninist principles. The resulting conflicts and disagreements among leftist factions not only affected political unity but also contributed to social unrest and violence during this tumultuous period.
  • Evaluate the impact of Maoism on Peru's political landscape during the late 20th century.
    • Maoism significantly influenced Peru's political landscape, particularly through the rise of groups like the Shining Path. This guerilla movement adopted Maoist principles, advocating for a peasant-led revolution and engaging in violent conflict against the state. The adoption of Maoism by such groups reflected a broader trend in Latin America where revolutionary ideas were intertwined with local socio-economic conditions, leading to prolonged violence and civil strife throughout the country as they sought to establish a new order based on these radical ideas.
  • Analyze how Peru’s geopolitical positioning influenced its relations with both Soviet Union and China amidst the Sino-Soviet Split.
    • Peru's geographical location in South America made it a strategic point for both Soviet and Chinese interests during the Cold War. As tensions rose between these two communist powers, Peru found itself navigating complex diplomatic waters. The country’s leftist movements were influenced by competing ideologies, impacting its foreign policy decisions. For instance, Peru sought support from both sides but ultimately had to contend with internal divisions that arose from external influences. This intricate balancing act showcased how global ideological conflicts could shape national politics in countries far removed from the main theaters of Cold War confrontation.

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