Latin America: In the Shadow of the US | Ep 3 – Chaos
Al Jazeera
February 23, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
The rise of left-wing leaders in Latin America during the 21st century sparked intense U.S. intervention, culminating in dramatic events like the 2026 capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro. This period saw a wave of populist movements led by figures such as Hugo Chávez, Luiz Inácio Lula da Silva, and Evo Morales, which reshaped the region’s political landscape. However, it also brought challenges including corruption scandals, drug trafficking, and migration crises, alongside increasing U.S. involvement.
The documentary highlights how the "pink tide" of left-wing leadership in countries like Venezuela, Brazil, and Bolivia created a divide between progressive movements and U.S.-backed policies. The U.S. response ranged from supporting hardline strategies in Colombia to direct military action against Venezuela, ultimately leading to Maduro’s abduction. This interventionist approach underscored the region’s vulnerability to external influences, while internal conflicts further destabilized countries like Brazil, where voters swung between Lula and Jair Bolsonaro.
As Latin America navigates a new era of U.S.-China competition and domestic struggles, its future remains tied to global power dynamics. The rise of authoritarian populism and threats to democracy complicate the region’s path forward. Understanding these challenges is crucial for anyone interested in global politics, as Latin America’s trajectory continues to shape international relations and stability.
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Originally published on Al Jazeera on 2/23/2026