Who was Domingo Mercante?

Domingo Mercante was an Argentine military officer and served as the governor of the province of Buenos Aires. He is recognized as one of the initiators of Peronism and played a key role in organizing labor mobilizations that led to the release of Juan Domingo Perón on October 17, 1945.

When was Domingo Mercante born and when did he die?

Domingo Mercante was born on June 11, 1898, and passed away on February 21, 1976, at the age of 77.

What was Domingo Mercante's political affiliation?

Domingo Mercante was a member of the Justicialist Party, which is the political party associated with Peronism in Argentina.

What was Domingo Mercante's role in the events of October 17, 1945?

Mercante was instrumental in organizing labor mobilizations that culminated in the release of Juan Domingo Perón on October 17, 1945. He served as Perón's chief negotiator and collaborated with Eva Duarte in planning and leading these demonstrations.

Where was Domingo Mercante born?

Domingo Mercante was born in the Flores section of Buenos Aires, Argentina.

What was Domingo Mercante's father's profession and union affiliation?

His father was a locomotive engineer and a senior member of *La Fraternidad*, which was the primary trade union for railway workers in Argentina at that time.

What military training did Domingo Mercante receive?

Mercante completed his secondary education at the National Military College in 1919 and subsequently received further training at the Superior War College, establishing himself as a career military officer.

In which military unit was Mercante a lieutenant colonel, and where was he stationed for a significant period?

Mercante held the rank of lieutenant colonel in the Mountain Division and was stationed at Campo de Mayo, a major Argentine Army base, from 1924 to 1940.

How did Mercante become involved with Juan Domingo Perón and the labor movement?

Following the 1943 coup, labor leaders Ángel Borlenghi and Juan Atilio Bramuglia sought allies within the new regime. They found one in Mercante, who was familiar with railway worker unions through his father. Mercante then became the liaison between the labor sector and the new Labor Minister, Colonel Juan Perón.

What was Mercante's role concerning railway worker unions?

Mercante was appointed as the comptroller for both *La Fraternidad* and its rival union, the *Unión Ferroviaria*. This position was crucial in Perón's rise to political dominance.

How did Mercante contribute to Perón's political dominance after October 17, 1945?

Mercante was central to Perón's achievement of political dominance following the October 17, 1945 events. His role as comptroller of major railway unions and his negotiation efforts were key factors.

What was Mercante's relationship with Eva Duarte?

Mercante introduced Eva Duarte (later known as Evita) to Juan Perón in 1944. He also collaborated with her in planning and leading the successful mobilizations that secured Perón's release from prison.

What positions was Mercante offered or appointed to after Perón's release?

After Perón's release, Mercante was promoted to full colonel. He was appointed to the powerful Labor Ministry and was also offered the nomination as Perón's running mate for the upcoming election.

Why did Mercante decline the vice-presidential nomination?

Mercante asked to be removed from the presidential ticket in favor of running for governor of the important Province of Buenos Aires instead.

What was the outcome of the 1946 gubernatorial election in Buenos Aires Province for Mercante?

Running on Perón's Labor Party ticket, Domingo Mercante won the governorship of Buenos Aires Province, defeating the UCR nominee Alejandro Leloir by nearly 20%. His performance also surpassed that of other Labor Party candidates and even Perón himself in the province.

What was the focus of Governor Mercante's administration in Buenos Aires Province?

Governor Mercante pursued a vigorous social agenda, significantly contributing to the Peronist program. This included enhancing labor rights and investing heavily in public works projects.

What were some specific public works and social initiatives undertaken during Mercante's governorship?

Mercante's administration accelerated land reform by distributing 1,300 square kilometers of unused land. They also completed 1,600 schools and 146 housing developments, which became known as the "Mercante chalets" due to their mock-chalet style.

How did Mercante's accomplishments affect his standing with Perón?

Mercante's significant accomplishments and his long-standing acquaintance with Perón made him one of the president's most important allies.

What role did Mercante play in the 1948 Constitutional Assembly?

Due to his prominence and alliance with Perón, Mercante was named President of the Constitutional Assembly in 1948. This assembly was tasked with replacing the existing 1853 Argentine Constitution.

When was Mercante re-elected as governor, and against whom did he run?

Mercante was re-elected governor in 1950, winning by a margin of over 25% against the UCR nominee, Ricardo Balbín.

How did Mercante's political prominence evolve, and what did it lead to?

Mercante's growing prominence led to him being viewed as a potential successor to President Perón. However, this increased visibility eventually made him a liability, and Perón persuaded him to step down from the governorship in 1952.

What happened to Mercante's political career in 1953?

In 1953, Mercante was expelled from the Peronist Party, following Perón's request for him to stand down from the governorship in 1952.

How did Mercante express his loyalty to Juan Perón?

Mercante publicly stated his unwavering loyalty, declaring that he had always followed Perón's lead and considered it anathema not to do so, emphasizing that his government depended on Perón.

What was Mercante's involvement after the 1955 coup against Perón?

Mercante joined efforts to resist the 1955 coup attempt against Perón. Although the coup was successful, the subsequent regime tried Mercante, but he was soon freed.

What happened to Mercante after his release following the 1955 coup?

After his release, Mercante maintained a low profile for the remainder of his life.

What were the "Mercante chalets"?

The "Mercante chalets" were housing units constructed during Domingo Mercante's governorship of Buenos Aires Province. They were built in a mock-chalet style as part of his administration's public works program.

What was the approximate amount of land distributed under Mercante's land reform policy?

As part of his administration's accelerated land reform, Mercante's government distributed approximately 1,300 square kilometers (equivalent to 1,400,000 acres) of unused land.

How many schools were completed by Mercante's administration?

Mercante's administration completed the construction of 1,600 schools across Buenos Aires Province.

How many housing developments were completed during Mercante's governorship?

His administration completed 146 housing developments as part of its public works initiatives.

Who was the *de facto* predecessor to Domingo Mercante as Governor of Buenos Aires?

The *de facto* predecessor to Domingo Mercante as Governor of Buenos Aires was Francisco Sainz Kelly.

Who succeeded Domingo Mercante as Governor of Buenos Aires?

Carlos V. Aloe succeeded Domingo Mercante as the Governor of Buenos Aires.

Who served as Deputy Governor during Mercante's first term (1946-1950)?

Juan Bautista Machado served as Deputy Governor from 1946 to 1950 during Mercante's tenure.

Who served as Deputy Governor during Mercante's second term (1950-1952)?

José Luis Passerini served as Deputy Governor from 1950 to 1952 during Mercante's second term.

What is the significance of the book "Domingo A. Mercante: A Democrat in the Shadow of Perón And Evita"?

This book, authored by Carolyn A. Becker and published in 2005, provides a biographical account of Domingo Mercante, exploring his role as a democrat within the political landscape shaped by Perón and Evita.

What is the subject of Claudio Panella's 2005 publication related to Mercante?

Claudio Panella's 2005 publication, titled "El gobierno de Domingo Mercante en Buenos Aires (1946-1952). Un caso de peronismo provincial," focuses on Domingo Mercante's government in Buenos Aires Province and analyzes it as an instance of provincial Peronism.

What does the image caption describe regarding Mercante's activities in 1950?

The image caption indicates that Domingo Mercante was giving a speech in Capilla del Señor in the year 1950.

What does the infobox image depict?

The infobox image shows a portrait of Domingo A. Mercante.

What was Mercante's relationship with the railway workers' unions?

Mercante had a close connection to railway workers' unions due to his father's leadership role in *La Fraternidad*. He later served as the comptroller for both *La Fraternidad* and its rival union, the *Unión Ferroviaria*, playing a key role in Perón's political strategy.

How did Mercante's background as a military officer influence his political career?

Mercante's military background, including his training at the National Military College and Superior War College, provided him with a structured career path. His participation in the 1943 coup d'état opened doors to political involvement, allowing him to connect with labor leaders and eventually Juan Perón.

What was the nature of the "social agenda" pursued by Governor Mercante?

Governor Mercante's social agenda was vigorous and aligned with the broader Peronist program. It focused on improving labor rights for workers and significantly increasing investment in public works projects across the province.

How did Mercante's political trajectory change after his re-election in 1950?

Following his re-election in 1950, Mercante's political standing grew, leading to him being viewed as a potential successor to President Perón. However, this increased visibility eventually made him a liability in Perón's eyes.

What was the consequence of Perón's request for Mercante to stand down as governor?

When Perón prevailed upon Mercante to stand down for new gubernatorial elections in 1952, it marked a shift in their relationship, culminating in Mercante's expulsion from the Peronist Party the following year.

What does the reference to "Authority control databases" signify in the context of the article?

The inclusion of authority control databases (like ISNI, VIAF, FAST, WorldCat, GND, LCCN, BN Argentina, IdRef, and Yale LUX) indicates that Domingo Mercante is a recognized historical figure whose identity and works are cataloged across various international and national library and archival systems.

What was the political climate in Argentina that Mercante operated within?

Mercante operated within the political climate of Argentina during the rise and consolidation of Peronism. He was a key figure in the military coup of 1943 and a close ally of Juan Domingo Perón, playing a significant role in Perón's ascent to power and subsequent governance.

How did Mercante's father's union involvement indirectly benefit Juan Perón?

Mercante's father's prominent role in *La Fraternidad*, the main railway workers' union, meant that Domingo Mercante was already familiar to and respected by the railway unions. This familiarity allowed him to act as an effective liaison between these powerful unions and Juan Perón, facilitating Perón's political strategy.

What was the impact of Mercante's administration on education and housing in Buenos Aires Province?

Mercante's administration had a substantial impact on education and housing by completing 1,600 schools and 1,460 housing developments, significantly contributing to public infrastructure and social welfare programs.

What was the nature of the "land reform" implemented by Mercante's government?

The land reform initiated by Mercante's government involved the distribution of approximately 1,300 square kilometers of unused land, aiming to redistribute resources and support agricultural development within the province.

What does the source suggest about Mercante's personal life beyond his political career?

The source mentions that Domingo Mercante was married to Elena Caporale, providing a detail about his personal life outside of his public and military roles.

What was the primary reason Mercante was considered an "initiator of Peronism"?

Mercante is considered an initiator of Peronism because he actively organized labor mobilizations that were crucial in securing the release of Juan Domingo Perón on October 17, 1945, a pivotal moment in the establishment of Peronism.

How did Mercante's political career conclude after his expulsion from the Peronist Party?

After his expulsion from the Peronist Party in 1953 and his subsequent involvement in resisting the 1955 coup, Mercante was tried by the new regime but was freed. He then maintained a low profile for the rest of his life.

Domingo Mercante Wiki: Domingo Mercante: Architect of Peronist Governance

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Overview

Key Figure in Argentine History

Domingo Alfredo Mercante (June 11, 1898 – February 21, 1976) was a distinguished Argentine military officer and served as the Governor of the Province of Buenos Aires. He is recognized as a foundational figure in the Peronist movement, notably orchestrating labor mobilizations that culminated in the release of Juan Domingo Perón on October 17, 1945.

Bridging Military and Labor

Mercante's unique position stemmed from his military background and his father's influential role in the railway workers' union. This allowed him to act as a critical liaison between the burgeoning labor movement and the military government, playing a pivotal role in the political ascendancy of Juan Domingo Perón.

Governorship and Social Agenda

As Governor of Buenos Aires Province from 1946 to 1952, Mercante implemented a vigorous social agenda. His administration focused on enhancing labor rights and significantly investing in public works, including land reform, school construction, and housing developments, leaving a tangible legacy on the province.

Military Career and Coup Involvement

Formal Military Training

Mercante pursued a dedicated career in the Argentine Army. He completed his secondary education at the National Military College in 1919 and subsequently received advanced training at the Superior War College, establishing himself as a career military officer.

Strategic Postings

From 1924 to 1940, Mercante was stationed at Campo de Mayo, a significant Argentine Army base. Later, as a lieutenant colonel in the Mountain Division, he became involved in the political landscape of the time.

Role in the 1943 Coup

Mercante participated in the 1943 coup d'état that overthrew the conservative administration of President Ramón Castillo. This event provided him with a crucial opportunity to engage with and influence the political direction of the nation, particularly concerning labor relations.

Foundational Role in Peronism

Connecting Labor and Politics

Leveraging his father's connections within the railway workers' union, Mercante became a key intermediary for labor leaders like Ángel Borlenghi and Juan Atilio Bramuglia. They sought allies within the new regime, finding a receptive contact in Mercante, who facilitated their relationship with the influential Labor Minister, Colonel Juan Perón.

Orchestrating Perón's Release

Following Perón's imprisonment by junta leaders apprehensive of his growing influence, Mercante played a pivotal role in negotiating his release. He was instrumental in organizing and leading successful labor mobilizations, working closely with Eva Duarte, whom he introduced to Perón in 1944. This event was critical to Perón's eventual political dominance.

Political Ascent

Promoted to full colonel in December 1945, Mercante assumed a significant position within the Labor Ministry. He was initially slated to be Perón's running mate for the upcoming presidential election. However, he requested to withdraw from the ticket, choosing instead to pursue the governorship of the strategically vital Province of Buenos Aires.

Governorship of Buenos Aires Province

Electoral Victory

Running on the Labor Party ticket alongside Juan Perón, Mercante secured a decisive victory in the 1946 gubernatorial elections, defeating the Radical Civic Union (UCR) nominee Alejandro Leloir by a margin of nearly 20%. His performance exceeded that of other Labor Party candidates, including Perón himself.

Progressive Policies

Governor Mercante's administration was characterized by a vigorous social agenda and substantial public works investments, aligning with the core tenets of Peronism. His tenure saw accelerated land reform initiatives, with the distribution of 1,300 square kilometers of unused land. Furthermore, his government completed the construction of 1,600 schools and 146 housing developments, which became known as the "Mercante chalets" due to their distinctive chalet-style architecture.

Re-election and Growing Influence

Mercante was re-elected governor in 1950 with an even larger mandate, securing over 25% more votes than his UCR opponent, Ricardo Balbín. His accomplishments and close relationship with Perón positioned him as a potential successor, a development that would later create political complexities.

Political Maneuvering and Loyalty

Constitutional Assembly Leadership

Mercante's political stature was further solidified when he was appointed President of the Constitutional Assembly in 1948. This body was tasked with the significant responsibility of revising the 1853 Argentine Constitution, underscoring Mercante's trust and influence within the Peronist regime.

Political Liability

His growing prominence and electoral success, however, began to be perceived as a potential challenge to President Perón. This perceived threat led to political maneuvering that impacted Mercante's career.

Shifting Political Landscape

In a move that signaled a shift in their relationship, Perón persuaded Mercante to step down from the gubernatorial race in 1952. Subsequently, Mercante faced expulsion from the Peronist Party in 1953. Despite these political challenges, Mercante publicly reaffirmed his unwavering loyalty to Perón, stating that his government was dependent on the President and that disloyalty would betray their shared movement and beliefs.

Later Life and Legacy

Loyalty During Crisis

During the 1955 coup attempt against Perón, Mercante actively participated in efforts to resist the overthrow. However, the coup ultimately succeeded.

Post-Coup Trial and Retirement

Following the successful coup, the new regime initiated legal proceedings against Mercante. Although he was tried, he was subsequently freed. In the years that followed, Mercante maintained a low public profile.

Passing

Domingo Mercante passed away on February 21, 1976, at the age of 77, leaving behind a significant, albeit complex, legacy in Argentine political and military history.

Bibliography

Scholarly Works

The following scholarly works provide in-depth analysis of Domingo Mercante's life and political career:

Becker, Carolyn A. (2005). Domingo A. Mercante: A Democrat in the Shadow of Perón And Evita. Replica Books. ISBN 1-4134-9532-X.
Panella, Claudio (comp.) (2005). El gobierno de Domingo Mercante en Buenos Aires (1946-1952). Un caso de peronismo provincial. Archivo Histórico de la Provincia de Buenos Aires Dr. Ricardo Levene: La Plata.

References

Source Citations

Page, Joseph. Perón: A Biography. New York: Random House, 1983.
Noro, Lauro. Soldado Digital: Mercante, líder con luz propia (in Spanish)
Potash, Robert. The Army and Politics in Argentina. Stanford University Press, 1996.
Blanco, Mónica. Peronismo, Mercantismo y política agraria en la Provincia de Buenos Aires (1946-55) (in Spanish)
Domingo Mercante (in Spanish) Archived June 18, 2009, at the Wayback Machine

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References

Noro, Lauro. Soldado Digital: Mercante, lÃder con luz propia (in Spanish)

A full list of references for this article are available at the Domingo Mercante Wikipedia page

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Domingo Mercante: Architect of Peronist Governance

💡 Dive in with Flashcard Learning! 💡

Overview ℹ️

👤 Key Figure in Argentine History

🤝 Bridging Military and Labor

🏛️ Governorship and Social Agenda

Military Career and Coup Involvement 🎖️

🎓 Formal Military Training

📍 Strategic Postings

✊ Role in the 1943 Coup

Foundational Role in Peronism ⚖️

🔗 Connecting Labor and Politics

🗣️ Orchestrating Perón's Release

🚀 Political Ascent

Governorship of Buenos Aires Province 🏛️

🗳️ Electoral Victory

🏗️ Progressive Policies

🔄 Re-election and Growing Influence

Political Maneuvering and Loyalty ⚖️

📜 Constitutional Assembly Leadership

⚠️ Political Liability

➡️ Shifting Political Landscape

Later Life and Legacy ⏳

🛡️ Loyalty During Crisis

⚖️ Post-Coup Trial and Retirement

🕊️ Passing

Bibliography 📚

📖 Scholarly Works

References 🔗

📝 Source Citations

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📜 References

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Disclaimer ⚠️

📜 Important Notice

Dive in with Flashcard Learning!

Overview

Key Figure in Argentine History

Bridging Military and Labor

Governorship and Social Agenda

Military Career and Coup Involvement

Formal Military Training

Strategic Postings

Role in the 1943 Coup

Foundational Role in Peronism

Connecting Labor and Politics

Orchestrating Perón's Release

Political Ascent

Governorship of Buenos Aires Province

Electoral Victory

Progressive Policies

Re-election and Growing Influence

Political Maneuvering and Loyalty

Constitutional Assembly Leadership

Political Liability

Shifting Political Landscape

Later Life and Legacy

Loyalty During Crisis

Post-Coup Trial and Retirement

Passing

Bibliography

Scholarly Works

References

Source Citations

Teacher's Corner

True or False?

Test Your Knowledge!

Gamer's Corner

Discover other topics to study!

References

Feedback & Support

Disclaimer

Important Notice