The Peróns and the Rise of Argentine Populism

This episode explores the explosive rise of Juan and Eva Perón in post-World War II Argentina, a period that fundamentally reshaped the nation’s political landscape. We trace how Colonel Juan Perón leveraged the labor unions, particularly the powerful CGT, to launch his presidential campaign in 1946. The narrative focuses heavily on Eva Duarte de Perón, whose transition from radio actress to the iconic figure of 'Evita' mobilized the descamisados, or the shirtless ones, through her extensive charity work and fiery speeches. We examine the controversial creation of the Peronist movement, which blended nationalist economic policies with unprecedented social welfare programs for the working class. The conversation also touches on the intense polarization that followed, pitting Peronists against the traditional oligarchy and the military establishment. By looking at key moments like the 1949 constitutional reform and Evita’s emotional funeral in 1952, we understand how their legacy continues to divide and define modern Argentina long after their deaths.

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