Rafael Archondo on Hernan Siles Zuazo

Rafael Archondo and Isabel Siles’ Sobre un barril de pólvora, is a comprehensive review of the former president’s life, Hernan Siles Zuazo (1913-1996). He was one of the founding members of the nationalist revolutionary party (MNR) in 1942. He was elected two times as president (1956-1960 and 1982-1985), and his role was vital to consolidate revolutionary achievements like Agrarian Reform or social participation and pluralistic democracy. The authors highlight Siles Zuazo’s commitment to human rights and civil liberties. During his tenure, power was peacefully transferred to the next elected president. Siles was a kind of tragic hero because of his conviction in using peaceful means in political struggles.