WHEN THE MUSIC STOPPED: Reagan Administration's Response to Brazil's Debt Crisis (1982-1983)

Abstract

This academic paper delves into the intricate web of diplomatic and legislative maneuvers orchestrated by the Reagan administration during Brazil's debt crisis of 1982 and 1983. Focused on averting a Brazilian default, the study scrutinizes the formulation and execution of policies, shedding light on the delicate negotiations with Congress for the approval of a comprehensive rescue package in 1983. Amidst the challenges posed by the intersection of executive and legislative branches in American politics, the paper examines the complexities of navigating these negotiations. Additionally, it dissects the pivotal roles played by international financial institutions, such as the IMF and the Federal Reserve, in addressing the broader Latin American debt crisis of the 1980s. This historical analysis illuminates the multifaceted dynamics that shaped the United States' response to a critical juncture in Latin American economic history.