Using the cases of Columbia, Costa Rica, and Venezuela, Peeler compares the evolution and maintenance of liberal democratic regimes in the Latin American context. These regimes are shown to be products of the normal Latin American political processes, under particular conditions that have permitted accommodation between rival political and economic elites. The author argues that these liberal democracies are fundamentally similar to those in other parts of the world. Originally published in 1985. A UNC Press Enduring Edition -- UNC Press Enduring Editions use the latest in digital technology to make available again books from our distinguished backlist that were previously out of print. These editions are published unaltered from the original, and are presented in affordable paperback formats, bringing readers both historical and cultural value.