Peru since Independence - by John W Sherman (Paperback)

About the Book

This concise, illustrated survey of modern Peru provides a narrative of the country's political history from Bolívar to Boluarte, through the War of the Pacific, the Aristocratic Republic and the rise of APRA. Additional thematic chapters explore the rich tapestry of Peruvian ...

Book Synopsis

Few nations in the world have trekked such a dramatic political path as Peru. Its relatively neglected post-1821 history comes alive in this concise and timely illustrated survey.

Opening chapters address the complex struggle for independence, the chaotic age of the caudillos, nascent stability under Ramón Castilla, and the War of the Pacific. Middle chapters look at state-building under Cáceres and Leguía, the Aristocratic Republic, labor and social unrest, the radical thought of Mariátegui, and the political dynamism of Haya de la Torre's APRA. Later chapters look at the Odría Ocenio, the governments of Belaúnde and García, the Sendero war, the Fujimori dictatorship, and the rise and fall of Pedro Castillo. Stand-alone chapters also explore Peruvian culture. Sensitive to issues of gender, ethnicity, and class, Peru since Independence fills a glaring gap in our understanding of a vital Latin American and Pacific Rim nation.

Review Quotes

"John Sherman offers both students and general readers a fresh look at South America's most politically volatile country. Tackling a wide variety of topics, Peru since Independence delivers a first-class, fast-paced narrative. Sherman's colorful and articulate prose will delight students and general readers interested in knowing more about South America's most frequently visited nation." --Peter V. N. Henderson, professor of history, Winona State University

"With a splendid eye for intriguing characters and storylines, John Sherman has written an exemplary narrative history of modern Peru. He captures the deep tensions and divisions that mark the country, the historical roots of its formidable contemporary challenges. Yet Peru since Independence: A Concise Illustrated History is not just gloom and doom--he highlights Peruvians' ability to adjust and resist and the role of leading cultural figures." --Charles Walker, professor of history, University of California, Davis

"A wonderfully accessible synthesis of Peru's complex modern history. Evocative illustrations complement an engaging political narrative, and emphasis on personalities brings the history to life. Lively life and culture chapters explore Peru's rich artistic, literary and musical heritage." --Iñigo García-Bryce, associate professor of history, New Mexico State University

"Written in an entertainingly lively style, this book reviews the history of Andean Peru from late colonial times to the present, showing in considerable detail the way elites governed to about the 1920s. It ends with the ascendancy of Pedro Castillo who represents the long neglected native population that will no doubt play a significant role in the future." --Susan Ramirez, Neville G. Penrose Chair Emerita of History and Latin American Studies, Texas Christian University

About the Author

John W. Sherman is professor of history at Wright State University. His books include The Mexican Right, Latin America in Crisis, and Mexico: A Concise Illustrated History.