Behind the Bastards: It Could Happen Here Weekly 161 – A Deep Dive into Paraguay's Anarchist History

Released on December 21, 2024, by Cool Zone Media and iHeartPodcasts, "Behind the Bastards" explores the intricate and often overlooked histories of some of the world's most notorious individuals. In Episode Weekly 161 titled "It Could Happen Here," host Andrew Sage, accompanied by the disembodied voice of Garrison Davis, delves into the rich and tumultuous history of anarchism in Paraguay.

1. Introduction

[02:44]
Andrew Sage:
"Hello and welcome to It Could Happen Here. I'm Andrew Sage, I'm on Andrewism over at YouTube and I'm not on YouTube right now. I'm on It Could Happen Here. And I'm joined by the disembodied voice of the one and only Garrison Davis."

[02:59]
Garrison Davis:
"Yes, well, one and only that I know of. Unless there's another one going around, which would be freaky."

2. Paraguay's Early History and Colonial Influence

Distinct Identity Beyond South America

Paraguay's historical trajectory diverged notably from its South American neighbors. Originating as a Guarani settlement, it evolved into a Spanish colony in the 16th century. Spanish Jesuit missionaries played a pivotal role, establishing a self-sustained colony governed by the rigid Spanish Casta system. Unlike other Spanish territories reliant on mining, Paraguay's economy was primarily agricultural, centered around cattle herding. The Guarani culture remained resilient, with their language and traditions persisting alongside Spanish influences. To this day, most Paraguayans are bilingual, fluent in both Guarani and Spanish.

3. Independence and Authoritarian Path

[03:05]
Andrew Sage:
"Paraguay, under the leadership of Jose Gaspar Rodriguez de Valenzuela, declared independence in 1811 and adopted an isolationist authoritarian path."

President Francia's [03:24] [03:05]
Jose Gaspar Rodriguez de Francia, Paraguay's supreme dictator for nearly thirty years, envisioned a self-sufficient society. He imposed strict controls on foreign influences, banned European migration, and limited trade to maintain Paraguay's isolation. This period saw the development of significant state infrastructure under his successor, Carlos Antonio López. However, this economic progress was short-lived.

4. The War of the Triple Alliance (1864–1870)

Devastating Impact on Paraguay

The War of the Triple Alliance saw Paraguay pitted against Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay over territorial disputes. The war's consequences were catastrophic:

• Population Loss: Nearly 70% of Paraguay's population perished, including a significant portion of its male demographic.
• Economic Ruin: The war obliterated Paraguay's economy and reduced its territory substantially.
• Political Chaos: Post-war Paraguay was engulfed in political turmoil, economic hardship, and foreign interventions.

[03:05] to [07:00]

This immense loss left Paraguay indebted to British creditors, leading to economic reforms that introduced a free-market economy and privatization. Land, once managed communally, was rapidly privatized, exacerbating class divides and establishing exploitative agricultural export systems. Indigenous communities and small farmers were displaced, forced into debt bondage on large estates where they were paid in vouchers redeemable only at exorbitantly priced estate stores. Attempts to flee or challenge these conditions were met with violent reprisals, effectively trapping laborers in a modern form of slavery.

5. Rise of Anarchism in Paraguay

[07:00] to [12:00]

As Paraguay approached the 20th century, escalating labor struggles and deepening social divisions created fertile ground for radical ideologies. European immigrants fleeing political repression introduced anarchist ideas, resonating with Paraguayan workers desperate for change. Anarchism offered a unique appeal to a population long subjected to oppression and authoritarian rule.

By the 1880s, Paraguayan workers began organizing mutual aid societies. Notable developments included:

• 1886:

  • Formation of the first unions by typographers, construction workers, carpenters, tailors, postal workers, and bakers.

  • The first anarchist publication, Organized by Los Hijos del Chaco, was released in 1892, advocating for the abolition of private property, the clergy, the state, and the armed forces. The manifesto declared:

    "We seek the complete emancipation of the proletariat as we fight to abolish the unjust exploitation of man by man... We seek to transform private property into a common good because individual property is the basic cause of all the evils it afflicts us."
    (Timestamp: [12:00])

• Early 1890s:

  • Expansion of anarchist influence with construction workers, carpenters, and other trades unions conducting strikes for an eight-hour workday and better wages.
  • Establishment attempts of a national trade union center, which, however, did not succeed.

[07:00] to [12:00]

The anarchist movement thrived through the formation of the Rafael Barrett Cultural Centre in the early 1890s, housing extensive collections of anarchist literature and fostering further union activities.

6. Rafael Barrett: A Pillar of Paraguayan Anarchism

[12:00] to [20:00]

Rafael Barrett emerged as a significant figure in Paraguayan anarchism. Born in Todavega, Spain, in 1876, Barrett initially pursued studies in languages, piano, and engineering. Driven by a commitment to justice, he migrated to Latin America in 1903, settling in Buenos Aires as a journalist. His critical writings on inequality and workers' exploitation resonated deeply, fueling his transition from government roles to full-fledged anarchism.

By 1904, Barrett moved to Paraguay, where he held positions such as Director of the Department of Engineers and the Railroad Agency. Witnessing persistent labor struggles under the Liberal government, Barrett resigned to dedicate himself to social justice. His writings in Criminal became influential, advocating for the dismantling of oppressive systems. Despite governmental repression forcing him into exile in 1908, Barrett's ideas continued to inspire Paraguayan anarchists until his death in 1910.

Barrett's legacy persisted through the formation of the Federacion Operas Regional Paraguay (FORP) on May 1, 1906, inspired by Argentina's Federacion Obrera Regional Argentina (FORA). The FORP organized workers from diverse trades, conducting the country's first International Workers Day demonstration and launching the publication El Desperitar to disseminate anarchist thought.

7. Anarchism Amidst Political Turmoil

[20:00] to [23:20]

The early 20th century was marked by continued labor activism and the struggle against paternalistic landowners. Despite setbacks from coups and internal conflicts, anarchists maintained a presence, particularly among rural workers and the tannin industry. The Paraguayan Civil War (1911–1912) led to intensified government crackdowns on anarchist and labor organizations, causing temporary inactivity among groups like the FORP.

Post-World War I economic revitalization saw a resurgence in labor activism, with new organizations like Centro Obrero Recuay championing anarcho-syndicalism. Publications such as El Combate and Renovacion became platforms for spreading anarchist ideals. Figures like Ciriaco Duarte emerged, advocating for workers' rights and leading strikes, though repression under subsequent dictatorships stifled anarchist activities.

During the Chaco War (1932–1935) between Paraguay and Bolivia, anarchist involvement waned as many joined the war effort, reluctantly supporting the national cause. Post-war, the resurgence of authoritarian regimes, particularly under General Alfredo Stroessner (1954–1989), led to severe repression of anarchist and syndicalist groups. Torture, imprisonment, and exile became commonplace for activists, forcing anarchism into the shadows.

8. Anarchism's Underground Era and Modern Resurgence

[23:20] onwards

Under Stroessner's dictatorship, anarchism survived through underground networks, preserving literature and maintaining solidarity through secret publications. Despite decades of oppression, the foundations laid by early anarchists endured, laying the groundwork for a modern resurgence in the early 2000s.

Early 21st Century Revival

The revival of anarchist sentiment was catalyzed by the punk counterculture and youth-led social movements, intertwined with indigenous rights, economic justice, and environmental causes. Spaces like La Terraza and Anarchist Squat provided venues for activism and community engagement, while publications such as Autonomia, Zine, and Gritofanzine disseminated anarchist principles.

This modern resurgence, though modest, signifies a rekindled interest in libertarian ideals within Paraguay, inspired by broader movements across Latin America. New generations are embracing the legacy of resilience and resistance, continuing the fight against authoritarianism and exploitation.

9. Conclusion

Paraguay's anarchist history is a testament to enduring resistance against oppression and authoritarianism. From the devastating War of the Triple Alliance to the resilient underground movements under Stroessner's dictatorship, anarchists have persistently sought to dismantle oppressive structures and advocate for workers' rights and social justice.

Today's resurgence, fueled by cultural movements and youth activism, offers hope for a future where anarchist ideals can flourish openly once more. As Garrison Davis aptly summarizes:

"Paraguayan anarchists have shown us the drive for freedom and equality is a daily commitment to defy tyranny and resist exploitation. Despite facing decades of silencing under the Stroessner dictatorship, anarchism did not disappear. The seeds of resistance lay dormant, but they are ready to bloom again as new generations can take up the struggle.
As Rafael Barrett, who fought tirelessly for the people he came to call his own, said: 'Justice above all things. Justice even if it costs blood. All power to all the people. Peace.'"
(Timestamp: [23:25])

This enduring legacy underscores the vital role of anarchism in shaping Paraguay's socio-political landscape and inspires continued efforts toward achieving a just and equitable society.

For those intrigued by the lesser-known histories of anarchist movements and their profound impacts, "Behind the Bastards" offers a compelling exploration that challenges conventional narratives and sheds light on the persistent fight against some of history's most formidable oppressors.