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Even as we gather to cheer for Messi at the World Cup, many Latin Americans can't help but harbor mixed feelings about Argentinians, finding them a tad overbearing and, let's be honest, a touch pretentious. The running joke, of course, is to "buy an Argentinian for what he's worth and sell him for what he says he's worth - you'll be sure to profit." One can't help but wonder how Argentina earned this reputation across Latin America.
As elucidated by a well-heeled native, the roots of this behavior can be traced back to the late 1800s with the arrival of the refrigerated car. With that invention, Argentina's famed "Pampas" or prairies were able to supply the cattle that fueled Europe's appetite, transforming Argentina into a wealth powerhouse.
Fast forward to the early 1900s, while the rest of Latin America was still finding its way, Buenos Aires proudly flaunted a storied Opera house where Maria Callas graced the stage, not to mention some of the finest architecture in the western hemisphere, earning the city the moniker "the Paris of the Americas." Mexico City and New York City were distant shadows in comparison. In essence, Argentina was the first world, while the rest of the Americas were grappling with the notion of civilization.
Teatro Colon inaugurated in 1908
Regrettably, a century later, Argentinians found themselves stuck in the glory of their past, watching the country plunge into poverty. Other nations raced ahead, surpassing Argentina's GDP, while the land of tango danced to political upheaval and socio-economic chaos.
After absorbing Milei’s WEF speech, I feel compelled to extend a sincere apology to any Argentinian I've unintentionally offended. Their newly elected President, Javier Milei, leaves our leadership biting the dust. While Americans should be mortified and embarrassed of Biden’s lack of statesmanship, Argentina’s new player is a breath of fresh air who just scored a winning goal on the world stage.
“Let no one tell you that ambition is immoral”
Javier Milei, President of Argentina
Listen here to Milei’s powerful speech, translated by AI into English. Though he is more fiery in his native language, the translation is accurate.
https://x.com/aphysicist/status/1747868626948907325?s=20
Father in Heaven,
We pray for those in power. We ask you grant multiple blessings to the leaders valuing freedom, life and individual rights so they may stay the course and advocate for what is right, moral, and within your divine plan.
Holy Spirit, erect a hedge of protection to shield them from the temptations and corruption of power. Surround them by wise counsel, grant them discernment, and remind them to remain humble servants of your will.
Lord, multiply leaders who will further your purposes for mankind. Open doors and change hearts, bring light into the shadows to dispel the darkness that threatens our planet.
Holy Jesus, in your name we pray,
Amen.
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Loved Miley’s speech! Wish an American leader had been there as fiery!
Great speech! I found myself wondering if the AI that translated it also made his mouth move in perfect sync with the English version.