Abstract

REYES PINEDA, Olimpia. Dollar diplomacy and the Galápagos: William F. Sands in Ecuador (1911-1912). Latinoamérica [online]. 2026, n.82, pp.49-71.  Epub Mar 23, 2026. ISSN 2448-6914.  https://doi.org/10.22201/cialc.24486914e.2026.82.57745.

ABSTRACT: This article analyzes the dollar diplomacy strategies deployed to grant a loan to the Ecuadorian government during the Alfaro-Estrada revolution (1911). From this perspective, US diplomat William F. Sands was sent to Ecuador to assess the political and economic situation and determine the viability of the loan. Sands' testimony allows us to observe the transition from the revolutionary period to the rule of a liberal oligarchy that overthrew Eloy Alfaro, as well as his role as representative of US interests and dollar diplomacy. Based on various journalistic sources, such as The New York Tribune, The San Francisco Call, The Washington Times, and The Sun, it is concluded that, despite negotiations, the loan was not granted due to factors such as financial speculation, the climate of political instability, the UniIslands andattempts to lease the Galapagos Islands, and growing local opposition to foreign intervention.

Keywords : Dollar Diplomacy; Williams F. Sands; Galapagos Islands; Ecuador.

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