This article highlights the recent changes in US-Latin American relations and the consequences of gradually shifting power balance for the Latin American countries. After providing a brief history of hemispheric relations, it analyzes the post-Cold War dynamics. Particular emphasis is placed on recent economic performances and democratic progress achieved by most Latin American nations. In the final section, this article acquires a comparative lens and draws some conclusions for Turkey and the Middle East in light of the Latin American experience. It argues that endemic security threats and high military spending in the Middle East hinder the virtuous cycle of regional solidarity, cooperation and development