Abstract
This chapter explores “la grieta” in Argentine society, the deep and irreconcilable division, primarily between Kirchneristas and Anti-Kirchneristas, that fragments and polarizes the nation. It significantly shapes political, social, cultural, and even personal relationships in the nation. Introduced by Jorge Lanata during the 2013 Martin Fierro Award Ceremony, la grieta extends beyond politics, impacting friendships, families, and workplaces. Argentina’s main newspapers align themselves with different sides of la grieta, made evident in their satirical approaches in political columns and editorial cartoons. Página 12 takes a progressive stance, La Nación leans conservative, and Clarín leans center-right. These newspapers reinforce existing beliefs, deepening the ideological and political divide. Selected texts like “Life begins at 30: The beautiful Página” (Página 12), “Cristina vs. Alberto: Call the firefighters!” (La Nación), and “Let the rift not wane” (Clarín) shed light on how satirists portray la grieta as a problematic phenomenon. Political satire both reflects and critiques the polarizing aspect of the division in Argentine society. This analysis provides perspectives on the role of satire in addressing societal wrongs within the context of la grieta in Argentina. Understanding the impact of this division can provide deeper insights into the social, cultural, and political dynamics of Argentine society.
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Notes
- 1.
The Kirchner family is a political family in Argentina. Néstor Kirchner was President from 2003 to 2007, known for center-left policies. His wife, Cristina Fernández de Kirchner, followed as President from 2007 to 2015. They're associated with the Justicialista Party and their policies had an impact on Argentina's political and economic landscape.
- 2.
He is known for his work in investigative journalism, literature, documentaries, television fiction, and magazine theater. He has been involved in founding newspapers (Página 12 and Crítica de la Argentina) and has contributed to various magazines.
- 3.
The Martín Fierro Awards, organized annually by the Argentine Television and Radio Journalists Association (APTRA), recognize outstanding achievements in Argentine radio and television programs as well as presenters.
- 4.
Lanata refers to Cristina Fernández de Kirchner, president of the country at that time.
- 5.
They are the daughter, son, and grandson, respectively, of former president Néstor Kirchner and his wife, Cristina Fernández de Kirchner.
- 6.
In fact, Lanata used the metaphor in a 1989 article titled “La Grieta” published in Página 12 to discuss a referendum held in Uruguay regarding the revocation of the amnesty law for perpetrators of the previous dictatorship (Fabbro, 2021).
- 7.
The National Reorganization Process, also known as “El Proceso,” was a military dictatorship in Argentina from 1976 to 1983. It was governed by a military junta comprising representatives from the Army, Navy, and Air Force. The junta appointed different officials as Presidents of the Nation with executive and legislative authority.
- 8.
The 1950s in Argentina were marked by intense political polarization between Peronistas, who supported Peronism, and opposition factions, including conservative groups and the military. This polarization laid the groundwork for future political conflicts and divisions in Argentine society.
- 9.
Macrism in Argentina refers to the political ideology and policies of Mauricio Macri during his presidency from 2015 to 2019. It focused on market-oriented economic reforms and attracting foreign investment but faced criticism for economic challenges and social inequality.
- 10.
Mauricio Macri was the President of Argentina from 2015 to 2019. He continues to be involved in Argentine politics as an opposition figure.
- 11.
French and Berutti were important figures in the early stages of Argentina's struggle for independence. Their contributions to the revolutionary cause helped pave the way for the establishment of an independent Argentine state.
- 12.
El Cabildo in Argentina refers to the historic building in Buenos Aires that served as the seat of colonial government. It played a pivotal role during the May Revolution of 1810, leading to the establishment of the First Junta. Today, it stands as a museum and symbol of Argentina’s fight for independence.
- 13.
La Primera Junta was the first governing body established during Argentina’s May Revolution in 1810. It marked a shift in power from Spanish colonial rule and laid the foundation for Argentine’s self-governance, eventually leading to the country’s declaration of independence in 1816.
- 14.
Cornelio Saavedra (1759–1829) was an Argentinian military leader and politician. He played a key role in the May Revolution of 1810 and led the patriot forces to victory. Saavedra was the president of the Primera Junta, Argentina’s first independent government.
- 15.
Morenists were supporters of Mariano Moreno, an Argentine lawyer, journalist, and politician. He was a key figure in Argentina’s independence movement and a strong advocate for equality and freedom of the press.
- 16.
The Partido Peronista was a political party in Argentina centered around Juan Domingo Perón. It championed the working class and implemented social welfare measures. Peronism remained influential in Argentine politics even after Perón’s death.
- 17.
Alberto Nisman, an Argentine prosecutor, gained prominence for his investigation into the 1994 bombing of the AMIA building. His accusations, controversial death, and unwavering pursuit of justice have left a lasting impact on Argentina’s history.
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Kalbermatten, M.I. (2024). Depicting “La Grieta”: The Role of Political Satire and Humor in Argentinean Polarization. In: Feldman, O. (eds) Communicating Political Humor in the Media. The Language of Politics. Springer, Singapore. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-981-97-0726-3_13
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