Women And Social Change - Liga Patriótica Argentina
HISTORYFEATURED
Reading reflection on an article by Sandra F. McGee about the Liga Patriótica Argentina, a right-wing nationalist organization that emerged in Argentina during the early 20th century.
Sandra F. McGee is the author of the article “The Visible and Invisible Liga Patriótica Argentina, 1919-28: Gender Roles and the Right Wing.” It was published in the Hispanic American Historical Review in 1984. In her article, McGee sheds light on the Liga Patriótica Argentina, a right-wing nationalist organization that emerged in Argentina during the early 20th century. The Liga's main goal was to suppress labor radicalism, and it was formed in response to social tensions that emerged in Argentina after the country's integration into the international economy. McGee's article provides a detailed exploration of the Liga's recruitment methods, social backgrounds, as well as motives and organizational patterns. Additionally, the article highlights the sexual division of labor within the Liga and how women gained public exposure despite their traditional domestic roles. McGee's research suggests that studying both male and female contributions to right-wing movements can offer fresh insights into the nature of such organizations and the relationships among gender roles, class, and forms of political participation.
Despite the Liga's lack of interest in women's rights, becoming a member of the organization offered Argentinian women an opportunity to participate in politics and gain experience in organizational matters. However, it is important to note that the Liga did not advocate for changes in gender roles, and women's activities were limited to tasks that fell into their traditional gender role. These tasks included creating free neighbourhood schools and kindergartens, maternity hospitals, daycare centres, free medical facilities, and organizing celebrations of national holidays and salutes to the flag and armed forces. Although the organizers of the Liga, all men, used women to help accomplish the Liga's political goals, women gained knowledge and experience in political matters and organization. Ironically, the knowledge and experience were gained inside a right-wing nationalist and anti-feminist organization.
In conclusion, McGee's article provides valuable insight into the role of women in right-wing organizations in Argentina during the early 20th century. The Liga's focus on suppressing labor radicalism and promoting nationalist ideas led to the involvement of women in activities that reinforced traditional gender roles. However, becoming a member of the organization offered women an opportunity to participate in politics and gain experience in organizational matters that may have helped them in their later quest for their rights. McGee's research highlights the importance of studying both male and female contributions to right-wing movements in understanding the nature of such organizations and the relationships among gender roles, class, and forms of political participation. This article serves as a reminder that understanding the complexities of gender and power in politics is crucial in gaining a more complete understanding of the dynamics of political movements.