Much attention has focused on Mexico's transition to electoral democracy in recent years. But how does it compare with other nations of Latin America? Is it typical of the region, or is it "unique" in specific ways? UC San Diego Professor Peter H. Smith compares Mexico with Brazil, Chile, Colombia, and Guatemala. The results yield insight on the pace of democratization, civil-military relations, party structures, separation of powers, and policy performance. Mexico fares relatively well along a number of key dimensions, argues Smith, and prospects for continuing consolidation of its democracy are surprisingly strong. (#27721)