The Argentine federalism: the issue at stake (first half of the XIXth century)

Abstract

This is a presentation about the Argentine federalism that aims at showing its complexity. This analysis will contemplate: periodization, context, author and historian. I consider federalism as a versatile concept that can only be understood in context. The article will begin with the presentation of different interpretations about federalism produced by Argentine historiography. Then the paper will deal with the actual concept of federalism taking into account some of its definitions and the usage of it in different periods in our history. Finally, we will show, through some historical cases, the variability of the use and interpretation that can be done of the term federalism, even by the same actors. We are convinced that in order to think about this phenomenon it is necessary to consider the process and interpretations, both contemporary and unseasonable.