I Will Travel to Bolivia at a Historic Time this Summer

     I will be entering Bolivia at a very interesting time. For the first time since the establishment of the country, an indigenous president was elected democratically. Bolivia has seen much progress since it revolution in 1952. Evo Morales is a fascinating president who has given cocaleros, coca leaf growers, a great deal of autonomy despite pleas from the United States and the Drug Enforcement Agency.
     The coca industry is not only illegal, but it is also larger than any legal industry in the country. At one point, a jailed coca baron offered all of his profits to pay off the country's debt for his release. Although this never happened, it clearly illustrates the billions of dollars that flow through this black market. Here is a long video that discusses Morales's political party and his plans for the future. Skip to 18:00 to watch what has happened as of recent to the cocalero movement.
     As I enter Cochabamba, Bolivia, I will be experiencing blockades and tear gas on a regular basis. I can't be more excited!