The question of the “most pacifist president” contains a value judgment that historical science, as a strict discipline, avoids. The concept of “pacifism” can be interpreted in different ways: as a rejection of war, prioritizing diplomacy, reducing military spending, refraining from military intervention in the affairs of other countries, or successfully resolving internal conflicts. Moreover, historical assessment depends on the context of the era, available sources, and perspective. Instead of seeking a single “most pacifist,” let’s consider several outstanding leaders from the history of North and South America, whose policies and legacies are most consistently associated with pacifism, disarmament, and a refusal to engage in military aggression. Their examples allow us to see different models of “pacifism” in action. 1. José Figueres Ferrer (Costa Rica) Term in Office: 1948–1949, 1953–1958, 1970–1974. Argument for pacifism: Figueres made a truly revolutionary step of unprecedented character in world history. On December 1, 1948, as interim president after the civil war, he symbolically destroyed the walls of the military barracks “Cuartel Bellavista” and announced the abolition of the army as a state institution. This act was enshrined in the Costa Rican Constitution of 1949 (Article 12). Since then, the country has managed with only police and border guard forces. Context and achievements: The decision was not only symbolic but also pragmatic: the funds saved on the army were redirected to education, healthcare, and environmental protection. Today, Costa Rica is one of the most stable democracies in the region with high social standards. Figueres became a key mediator in resolving regional conflicts and an active advocate for the creation of the United Nations University for Peace, which is now located in San José. His legacy — Costa Rica as a disarmed nation — remains the most vivid and consistent example of state pacifism in the Western Hemisphere. 2. Juan Ma ... Read more