Böcker av Colin M. MacLachlan

Challenges the widely held notion that Mexico's colonial period is the source of many of that country's ills. This study begins with a discussion of the area's rich pre-Columbian heritage. It traces the merging of two great cultural traditions - the Meso-american and the European - which occurred as a consequence of the Spanish conquest.

Their empire unmatched in military and cultural might, the Aztecs were poised on the brink of a golden age, when the arrival of the Spanish changed everything. Colin MacLachlan explains why Mexico is culturally Mestizo while ethnically Indian and why Mexicans remain orphaned from their indigenous heritage-the adopted children of European history.

Argentina once seemed to have the requirements for greatness, including an established middle class of professionals. Its failure raises the spectre that other middle-class societies could also fail. This book presents a portrait of Argentina that emphasizes the role of a destructive nationalism and corruption that turned citizens into clients.

From the natural beauty of the Amazon River to the exciting resort city of Rio de Janeiro, from soccer champion Pel to classical musician Villa Lobos, Brazil is known as a distinctive, diverse country. This book provides a brief history of Brazil that focuses on both the politics and culture of the republic.