Economist Podcasts Reform over function: Peru’s political crisis
Oct 2, 2019
James Astle, a Lexington columnist for The Economist, dives into the political turmoil engulfing Peru, where a clash between the president and Congress leads to unrest. He highlights the complex dynamics of public support amid corruption battles. Shifting to eastern Kentucky, Astle sheds light on the coal miners' relentless struggles for rights in a declining industry, revealing unique political affiliations. The conversation also touches on India's staggering sugar surplus, exploring its effects on farmers and the economy.
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Harlan County's Protest History
- Harlan County miners have a rich history of protests, including the violent ones in the 1970s documented in an Oscar-winning film.
- Decades earlier, during the Depression, the Harlan County War saw thousands of miners striking for unionization.
Current Coal Protests
- In Harlan County, miners blockaded coal trucks after a company failed to pay wages.
- Darrell Raleigh, a 64-year-old miner, has been protesting since the start, highlighting decades of experience.
A Diverse Protest
- The Harlan County protest brought together a diverse group of people with differing political views.
- This mix included left-wing figures like Bernie Sanders sending pizzas and anarchists helping set up the camp.