Montoneros

Definition

Montoneros were a leftist urban guerrilla group in Argentina, active primarily during the 1970s. They emerged as a response to political repression and social inequality, advocating for revolutionary change through armed struggle against the government and military forces. Their actions were part of a broader wave of resistance movements throughout Latin America, which sought to challenge authoritarian regimes and promote social justice.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The Montoneros were founded in 1970 and gained prominence during the presidency of Juan Domingo Perón, aligning themselves with his Peronist ideology while pushing for more radical leftist policies.
2. They utilized tactics such as kidnappings, bombings, and assassinations to target government officials and perceived enemies, seeking to destabilize the ruling military junta.
3. The group drew significant support from urban workers and students who were frustrated with social inequality and repression under military rule.
4. As the Dirty War escalated, many Montoneros were persecuted, leading to their decline by the late 1970s as many members were captured or killed by government forces.
5. Post-1983, after democracy was restored in Argentina, some former Montoneros became involved in politics and social activism, reflecting a shift from armed struggle to political engagement.

Review Questions

• How did the Montoneros align with or diverge from Peronist ideology during their active years?
  • The Montoneros initially aligned with Peronism by embracing its focus on social justice and labor rights. However, they diverged by adopting more radical leftist tactics and ideologies as they sought revolutionary change through armed struggle. This divergence reflected a broader desire among some Peronists for a more profound transformation of society beyond what traditional Peronism offered under Juan Domingo Perón's leadership.
• Evaluate the impact of the Dirty War on the Montoneros' operations and membership.
  • The Dirty War had a devastating impact on the Montoneros, as it led to intense government repression aimed at eradicating leftist groups. The military regime targeted Montonero members through kidnappings and killings, significantly reducing their ranks and undermining their operational capabilities. This environment of fear and violence ultimately forced many members into hiding or exile, contributing to the group's decline by the late 1970s.
• Assess the legacy of the Montoneros in contemporary Argentine society and politics.
  • The legacy of the Montoneros is complex and continues to influence contemporary Argentine society and politics. While their armed struggle is often viewed critically due to the violence involved, many former members have transitioned into political roles that advocate for human rights and social justice. Their historical narrative has contributed to ongoing discussions about state terrorism during the Dirty War and has shaped national memory regarding resistance movements in Argentina.

Related terms

Peronism: A political ideology based on the ideas and policies of Juan Domingo Perón, which emphasizes social justice, labor rights, and national sovereignty.

Dirty War:

A period of state terrorism in Argentina from 1976 to 1983, characterized by widespread human rights violations, including forced disappearances of suspected political dissidents.

Argentine Revolutionary Army: A Marxist guerrilla group that operated in Argentina during the 1970s, which, like the Montoneros, engaged in armed struggle against the military dictatorship.