ABSTRACT
Success in policy making rests in a mastery of the rules of the game, or alternatively, the ability to redefine them. In either case, skillful pursuit of policy objectives requires a sensitive appreciation of both the possibilities for change and the limitations on reform imposed by existing institutions and interests. 1 Jango's failure to achieve his agrarian program was directly related to his misperception and even disregard of the limitations on his policy choices within the existing framework. On the other hand, Castelo's ability to secure a land reform law must be understood not only as the result of wiser political craft and more propitious circumstances, but also of prudent observance of the policy constraints imposed by influential conservative elites.
