Today was much more relaxed in comparison to the rest of the week. After a quick breakfast at the hotel, our group took taxis back to La Boca to take pictures and explore more of the shops. We spoke with local vendors and got to experience the livelihood of La Boca’s colorful streets again. After this, we took a taxi back to the hotel and went on a walking tour around Buenos Aires. We learned about the statue of San Martin and his role in Argentina’s independence from Spain, and also about the memorial for soldiers who died fighting for independence.

Along this tour and also parts of yesterday, we learned a lot about Juan Perón, the 29th president of Argentina. Often coined with the political ideology “Peronism,” Perón stood for the interests of the working class. During his time, Perón played a significant role in shaping Argentina’s healthcare system by creating the Ministry of Health in 1946 and by investing in many hospitals in underserved areas of Argentina. Perón also introduced the idea that healthcare was a basic human right and promoted free healthcare for the general public through public hospitals and Obras Sociales (unions) that provided health coverage to the working class. Also, Perón’s wife, discussed in yesterday’s blog, was a very important figure in creating nursing schools and bachelor programs in order to increase the quality of healthcare. Both Evita and Juan Peron were very influential figures during the formation of Argentina’s healthcare system. These foundations are very important for understanding Argentina’s healthcare system today and the way that power is currently shifting away from the unions through President Milei’s reforms.

After learning some more history through the streets of Buenos Aires, we ended the tour in La Recoleta Cemetery. This was most definitely the most beautifully done cemetery I have ever seen, as each gravestone was an incredible large sculpture or building commemorating very important people in Argentina’s history. We saw the graves of Evita and Juan Perón and also several important military generals. When the tour concluded, we went to explore the huge market nearby in Recoleta. There were several miles of tents filled with handmade trinkets and artwork. I was able to purchase some beautiful handmade jewelry and enjoy the live music surrounding the market. After a dinner in Recoleta we returned to the hotel and got to have a peaceful rest of the night. Tomorrow will be much busier but another great opportunity to explore new things! Hasta mañana, adios amigos.