Anticommunism Versus Nonintervention in Latin America

Communism has made heavy inroads into Latin America and continues to present a serious threat. Yet, common action by the OAS to meet this threat may not be timely or adequate. Accordingly, there appears to be a basic conflict between U.S. determination to contain communism and adherence to a policy of nonintervention. This thesis analyzes the courses of action open to the United States in combating communism in Latin America. Threatened Communist assumptions of power via legal and forcible means are considered. It is concluded that under no circumstances should the United States stand idly by while another Communist government is established in this hemisphere. Action to contain communism preferably should be taken through the Organization of American States. However, should the OAS be unwilling or unable to take the proper countermeasures, the United States should not hesitate to take the unilateral action necessary to prevent Communist expansion.