Drivers and Success Measures of Populism: Case Studies on 1930-1955 in Argentina and 1979-2016 in Great Britain (thesis)

Abstract

In sum, both of the examined cases of populism sought to gain influence and power, however for different purposes. Perón sought to gain representation for the underrepresented working class in Argentina, and UKIP sought to bring the underrepresented idea of 'British independence' to the fore of national discussion, pairing it along the way with an economic message targeting a working class that felt abandoned after Labour's 1990s reforms. Despite the ultimate unraveling of both populist movements, their existence in each of their respective nations resulted in the resolution of the root issue that creates populism: missing representation in the existing political environment. Consequently, one asks what the long-term role of populist movements is within established democracies. Given that populism seeks to add representation or give voice to a previously unconsidered idea, once that is achieved, is it possible for a populist movement to sustain itself? I argue that although the three drivers can continue giving strength to a specific movement, ultimately it is the strength of the populist ideology itself that will determine how lasting its presence is in politics. [From Concluding Analysis]