Employing a political realist approach, Vanden and Prevost focus on who wields the power in Latin American countries, who controls the policymaking process, and who benefits from policy decisions. To shed some light on the reasons for the current political situation, the book also incorporates an analysis of the factors that influence the exercise of power; the historic traditions of the region as a whole and each country in particular; the nature and composition of classes and society; national and international political economies; and the changing roles of key interest groups. Politics in Latin America: The Power Game consists of four sections. Part One lays the groundwork for understanding Latin America as a whole, as well as each independent region. Part Two addresses the important themes necessary to understand contemporary Latin American politics. Part Three provides case studies of Mexico, Brazil, Argentina, Cuba, Nicaragua, Chile, Peru, Guatemala, and Costa Rica, all written by experts on each particular country. Part Four examines Latin American international relations, with particular emphasis on U.S.-Latin American relations and Latin American attempts to chart a more independent course. A final chapter provides a brief summary and speculations about future developments in the region.