Challenging conventional views, this study argues that war outcomes significantly influenced postwar state formation in Latin America.

Context & Methodology📏 Examining the period 1865-1913 across multiple countries,🤭 I demonstrate how winning versus losing conflicts led to distinct institutional developments. The analysis employs difference-in-differences techniques with Latin American panel data.

Case Studies & Evidence📏 Detailed investigations reveal: • The Paraguayan War (1864-70) created stronger centralized states among the belligerents. • The War of the Pacific (1879-83) similarly altered resource allocation patterns.

Broader Implications📏 Applying synthetic control methods, this research shows Latin America's unique war legacy differs fundamentally from European experiences where outcomes were less decisive.