The **Radical Civic Union (Unión Cívica Radical, UCR)** is a major political party in Argentina, founded in 1891 by Leandro N. Alem. It is the country's second oldest active party and has played a critical role in shaping Argentina’s political landscape for over a century[1][2][4]. The UCR emerged in opposition to the conservative, elitist governments of the late 19th century, advocating for **liberal democratic values**, including universal male suffrage and wealth redistribution[2][5]. Historically, the UCR has represented the urban middle class and championed social justice, national sovereignty, and democratic governance. Its first major political victory came in 1916 when Hipólito Irigoyen, a UCR leader, became Argentina’s first president elected under broad suffrage, initiating significant social and economic reforms[2][4]. The party’s internal structure was innovative for its time, featuring a national committee and provincial delegates, and it was notable for its institutionalized decision-making and grassroots territorial committees that engaged in political education and social integration[3]. Throughout the 20th century, the UCR often stood as the primary opposition to the Peronist Justicialist Party, enduring periods of illegality during military regimes[1][2]. It has experienced ideological shifts, ranging from liberalism to social democracy, and was a member of the Socialist International since 1995, reflecting its center-left orientation[1][4]. The party has seen prominent leaders like Raúl Alfonsín, who helped restore democracy in the 1980s. Currently, the UCR is not part of any coalition following the dissolution of Juntos por el Cambio in 2023 and is headed by Martín Lousteau[1]. The party remains a key player in Argentine politics, known for its historical commitment to democratic ideals and middle-class interests while adapting to contemporary political challenges[1][4]. Notabl