Social discipline, political violence, and conflict regarding May 1st in Salta during the 1930s

Abstract

This article analyzes three moments of 1st May commemorations in Salta, Argentina, during the 1930s: the celebrations prior to José Félix Uriburu’s coup d’état, the clashes between socialists and the Argentine Civic Legion in 1935-1936; and the rise of the Christian Workers’ Youth from 1938 onwards. Through these episodes, the article examines the political and ideological tensions that ran through the world of work, as well as the various forms of collective class construction. It also analyzes the repressive and persuasive tactics deployed by the nationalist right-wing and Catholic nationalism in the city.