What role did protectionism play in the Americas during the 1930s?

Protectionism played a significant role in the Americas during the 1930s, shaping economic policies and influencing international trade.

During the 1930s, the Americas, like much of the world, were grappling with the Great Depression. This economic downturn led to a rise in protectionist policies, as countries sought to protect their domestic industries from foreign competition. In the United States, this was epitomised by the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act of 1930, which raised tariffs on over 20,000 imported goods to record levels. The aim was to encourage consumers to buy American products, thereby boosting domestic industry and reducing unemployment.

However, these protectionist policies had significant repercussions. Other countries retaliated with their own tariffs, leading to a decline in international trade. This further deepened the economic crisis, as countries found it harder to export their goods. In Latin America, countries such as Argentina and Brazil also adopted protectionist measures, imposing high tariffs and quotas on imported goods. These policies were designed to stimulate domestic production and reduce dependence on foreign imports.

Protectionism also influenced the political landscape in the Americas. In the United States, the backlash against the Smoot-Hawley Tariff Act contributed to the defeat of the Republican Party in the 1932 presidential election. The new Democratic administration, led by Franklin D. Roosevelt, introduced the Reciprocal Trade Agreements Act in 1934, which aimed to reduce tariffs and promote international trade. In Latin America, protectionist policies were often associated with populist leaders, who used them to garner support among the working class.

In conclusion, protectionism was a defining feature of the 1930s in the Americas. It shaped economic policies, influenced international trade, and had significant political repercussions. While it was intended to protect domestic industries and reduce unemployment, it often had the opposite effect, exacerbating the economic crisis and leading to a decline in international trade.