💃latin american history – 1791 to present review

key term - Guerrilla warfare

Definition

Guerrilla warfare is a form of irregular warfare where small groups of combatants use tactics such as ambushes, sabotage, and hit-and-run operations to fight a larger, traditional military force. This strategy emphasizes mobility, surprise, and the support of the local population to achieve military objectives, making it particularly effective in revolutionary and resistance movements.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. Guerrilla warfare became prominent in Latin America during the 20th century, particularly in the context of revolutionary movements aimed at challenging oppressive regimes.
  2. Famous figures like Che Guevara and Fidel Castro utilized guerrilla tactics effectively in their struggles against governments in Cuba and elsewhere in Latin America.
  3. This type of warfare often relies on the element of surprise and the knowledge of local terrain, allowing smaller forces to outmaneuver larger armies.
  4. Guerrilla fighters often blend into civilian populations, which complicates the enemy's ability to target them without causing collateral damage.
  5. The success of guerrilla warfare can lead to broader social and political change, as it aims to inspire mass movements among the populace against established authorities.

Review Questions

  • How does guerrilla warfare differ from conventional warfare, and what advantages does it provide to smaller forces?
    • Guerrilla warfare differs from conventional warfare primarily in its use of small, mobile units that rely on surprise attacks rather than direct confrontation with larger forces. This approach allows smaller groups to exploit their knowledge of local terrain and gather support from civilians. The emphasis on ambushes and hit-and-run tactics enables these forces to disrupt enemy operations without facing them head-on, often leading to significant advantages despite their limited numbers.
  • Discuss the role of popular support in the effectiveness of guerrilla warfare within revolutionary movements in Latin America.
    • Popular support is crucial for the effectiveness of guerrilla warfare as it provides vital resources, intelligence, and recruitment opportunities for guerrilla fighters. When local populations sympathize with the guerrillas' cause, they are more likely to offer shelter, food, and assistance. This grassroots backing helps sustain the movement over time, creates a sense of legitimacy for the fighters, and can ultimately shift public sentiment against oppressive regimes.
  • Evaluate the long-term impact of guerrilla warfare on political change in Latin America throughout the 20th century.
    • The long-term impact of guerrilla warfare on political change in Latin America has been significant. Successful guerrilla movements have often led to regime change or reforms, altering political landscapes across countries like Cuba and Nicaragua. However, these conflicts also sparked violent reprisals from governments, resulting in prolonged periods of instability and human rights violations. The legacy of these movements continues to influence contemporary social and political dynamics, as many communities still grapple with issues stemming from past conflicts.