Since the time of the first European explorers, Latin America's political, social, and economic dynamics have been strongly influenced by European developments. Contemporary Latin American social structures, institutions, religion, and political culture continue to bear the legacy of colonial systems. The timing and outcome of 19th Century independence movements—including the heritage of Brazil as the host of the region's first European empire—was shaped by Napoleon's invasion of Europe, writes Professor Evan Ellis.

However, Latin America has generally been more of an object of influence than an agent. With the exception of Brazil's support to maritime security in the Atlantic and its contribution to efforts to liberate Italy from fascist control, Latin America remained mostly on the sidelines during World War II—even though the region was profoundly impacted by the war. During the Cold War period, Latin America became a battleground for the Soviet Union's attempts to advance a global Communist order.

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China and the Self Defeating Logic of Transactional Diplomacy in the Americas The U.S. shouldn't base its Latin America policy on trying to match China's actions in the region.

Having closely followed China's advance in the Western Hemisphere for more than two decades, I have always felt discomfort with the reasonable sounding, but self-defeating explanation from our Latin American partners: "Well, the U.S. isn't offering us anything better..." writes Professor Evan Ellis

To be clear, I strongly believe that it is in the United States' interest to do far more to support the economic development of the region, and the vital related tasks of combating its endemic corruption, improving citizen security, and strengthening effective and transparent governance. Doing so is the only way to ensure that our neighbours maintain faith that democracy and a market-dominated economic system, despite their inconveniences, provide the best path to prosperity, security, and protect their fundamental rights from state and other actors who would impinge upon them.

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