Latin American History Late: Authoritarian Regimes 

In the context of the Global Cold War, Latin America experienced a wave of military and authoritarian regimes, some of which lasted decades. As the twentieth century came to a close, most countries had returned to democratic rule. Join Anna Grimaldi to explore how memories of violence and state repression remain strong in Latin America.

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  • Start Date: 22 Sep 2026
    End Date: 22 Sep 2026
    Tue (Evening): 19:30 - 21:00
    Online
    Location: Online
    Duration: 1 session
    Course Code: HAH118
    Tutors:  Anna Grimaldi
    Full fee £19.00 Senior fee £19.00 Concession £12.00
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In stock
SKU
246125
Full fee £19.00 Senior fee £19.00 Concession £12.00

What is the course about?

This session introduces you to the modern history of Latin America, with a particular focus on the rise and fall of authoritarian and military regimes in the 20th century. Together, we will explore how countries such as Argentina, Chile, Brazil, and Guatemala experienced dictatorship, resistance, and transition back to democracy. Along the way, we will also consider how societies remember these periods today and how the past continues to shape the present.

What will we cover?

We will explore key themes and case studies, including:

  • The political and social context leading to military and authoritarian rule
  • Life under dictatorship: repression, resistance, and everyday experiences
  • Case studies of Argentina, Chile, Brazil, and Guatemala
  • Human rights violations and the role of international actors
  • Transitions to democracy and their challenges
  • Memory, memorials, truth commissions, and reconciliation processes

Sessions will combine historical background with discussion, encouraging you to engage with different perspectives and interpretations.

What will I achieve?
By the end of this course you should be able to...

  • Discuss and name key events surrounding the authoritarian and military regimes that took place in 20th century Latin America
  • Compare and contrast different experiences of Argentina, Chile, Brazil, and Guatemala in this context
  • Understand the legacies of these regimes and how they are remembered today.

What level is the course and do I need any particular skills?

This course is open to anyone with an interest in Latin American history, memory, authoritarianism, or democratic transitions. No prior specialist knowledge is required-just curiosity, willingness to engage, and an openness to discussion.

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How will I be taught, and will there be any work outside the class?

Teaching will take the form of an interactive lecture combined with questions and room for discussion. You will be encouraged to share ideas, ask questions, and reflect on different viewpoints.

There is no required work outside class, but optional readings and resources may be suggested if you would like to explore topics in more depth.

Are there any other costs? Is there anything I need to bring?

There are no additional course costs.

When I've finished, what course can I do next?

Join Anna for the following Late Lecture:

Latin American History Late: Che Guevara's Revolutions

Anna Grimaldi

Anna Grimaldi is a lecturer in politics and international relations at the University of Leeds. Her work focuses on themes of dictatorship, political resistance, and transnational solidarity. She has written on exile and solidarity activism in the context of Brazil's military dictatorship of 1964 to 1985, some of which has been published in her recent book - Brazil and the Transnational Human Rights Movement. Anna's more recent research examines solidarity activism and social movements across and between Latin America and the "Global South", particularly the ways in which social movements and political projects of the past are called upon by activists in the present through artistic and cultural production. Anna has taught at City Lit for three years and is keen to teach despite now living in Leeds.

Please note: We reserve the right to change our tutors from those advertised. This happens rarely, but if it does, we are unable to refund fees due to this. Our tutors may have different teaching styles; however we guarantee a consistent quality of teaching in all our courses.