Latin America's Debt Crisis: A United States Foreign Policy Challenge

A review of traditional U.S. national interests in Latin America and how they have changed since the 1960s introduces a characterization of Latin America today and the extent of the debt crisis that threatens the regions democratic governments. The author then analyzes and assesses two past Latin American policy initiatives--the Alliance for Progress 1961 and the Baker Plan 1985. Using lessons learned from these two programs and the current national and international environment, the author recommends a regional policy strategy to help resolve Latin Americas debt crisis and further United States regional interests. Keywords Foreign policy.