A Brief History of Peru provides a concise yet comprehensive narrative of Peruvian history from the first civilizations established on the slopes of the Andes around the second millennium BCE through the most recent social unrest and political developments. From the accomplishments of early civilizations that culminated in the great Inca Empire of the 14th to 16th centuries to Spanish conquest and colonization; from independence in 1821 to the election of centrist leader Alejandro Toledo for president in June 2001 Peru's history is presented in a clear narrative line and with a non-specialist audience in mind.

The "Brief History" series introduces readers to the dramatic events, notable people, and special customs and traditions that have shaped many of the world's countries. Each engaging volume covers a specific country and offers a concise history of the struggles and triumphs of the peoples and cultures that have called that country home. Touching on factors as diverse as the development of the economy to the role of women in society to changes in the political landscape, these comprehensive volumes provide the key background information readers need to put current global events in historical perspective.

Only slightly smaller in size than the United States, Brazil is the fifth largest country in the world. It is home to exotic Rio de Janeiro, the mighty Amazon River, the world-renowned Carnival, and of course, its shrinking rainforests. A Brief History of Brazil offers a concise yet comprehensive account of the rich and varied history of Brazil, placing the political, economic, and cultural events of today into broad historical context. The book opens with an overview of pre-colonial Brazil and goes on to examine the history of Portuguese exploration, through the early years of the slave trade between Africa and the Americas, and the creation of the largest slaveholding society in the modern world.

"A Brief History of the Caribbean" is an overview of the historical events that have taken place and shaped the islands of the Caribbean Sea - beginning with an account of the indigenous populations before the arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1492 and ending with the major political and economic developments in early 2007 in Aruba, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Haiti, Jamaica, and Puerto Rico, among others.The historical perspective is enriched by allusions to the culture, manners, and morals of particular periods, often highlighting the connection between literary activities and politics, such as the Negritude Movement, and literary figures and politicians, such as Juan Bosch in the Dominican Republic.

From the rise of the first civilizations of North America and continuing through the cataclysm of the Spanish conquest and the explosive revolution of Emiliano Zapata and Pancho Villa to the intensely contested presidential election of 2006, Mexico has had a vibrant and dynamic history. "A Brief History of Mexico, Updated Edition" gives expansive coverage to Mexico's pre-Columbian civilizations as well as contemporary indigenous cultures. This book also brings readers up to date on recent developments in Mexico and helps them understand the deeper significance of these...