Understanding Latin America

It is important for the understanding of Latin American literature to understand the conditions of Latin America. A large percentage of those living in Latin America are very poor. These people live in places that are not developed as well as the rest of the civilized world. Also, these people are often exploited by the governing establishment. The literature of this region reflects the attitudes of the people.
Several radical political changes have also deeply affected Latin America since the 1960s. Military dictatorships have generally given way to democratically elected governments. Economic problems, however, have had a significant impact on the political systems in the region. In many cases suffrage and voter turnout are not true indicators of democracy; many of the poorest residents are now poorer and more segregated before elections. In several countries the desperation stemming from poverty, oppression of women, governmental neglect, corrupt politics, and unrealizable progress...