The Latin Beat: Corruption
The biggest problem facing Latin America is finding one honest politician. It isn't so much that as Americans we need be worried about the despots in charge like Fidel Castro or Hugo Chavez, it is the alternative candidate who may be worse. If Americans think they have it bad here then they should bone up on their banana republic history. Read and weep for the Latin nations that are drowning in corruption and malaise while the rich keep moving to Miami.
Bolivar's Dream
"Simón Bolívar sent a joyous letter to a fellow general on January 8, 1822, displaying his belief in a unified America. He wrote, "America's greatest day has not yet dawned. We have indeed driven out our oppressor, smashed the tablets of their tyrannical laws, and established legitimate institutions; but we have yet to lay the foundation … that will make of this part of the world a nation of republics." Bolívar was confident that this unified America would impress Europe: "Who shall oppose an America united in heart, subject to one law, and guided by the torch of liberty?"
—adapted from Selected Writings of Bolívar, compiled by Vicente Lecuna and edited by Harold A. Bierck, Jr. (1951)