Encyclopedia Of Latin American History And Culture

The 2d ed. of this major resource contains substantial additions, notably eight lengthy articles on major topics by prominent scholars, the addition of 568 new entries, and revision of many of the earlier entries and bibliographies. Of 5824 entries, 3322 are biographies, with equal treatment given throughout to people and countries that are Spanish- and Portuguese-speaking as well as non-Spanish-speaking Caribbean countries. The entries for each of the individual countries of Latin America are made up of separate, detailed articles discussing the country's history in the colonial period, the 19th, and the 20th centuries, with attention to the impact of colonists on the native peoples, the activities of missions, and discussion of economics, geography, and culture. The eight overview essays--on race and ethnicity, migration and migrations, democracy, Hispanics in the US, economic development, hemispheric affairs, nationhood, and globalization--are valuable entry points to Latin American studies for the general reader. Each of the 6 volumes contains a section of color plates on different themes; v.6 contains a chronology, a thematic outline of topics, a table of biographical subjects by profession, and a comprehensive index. Bibliographies are attached to each entry, with care taken to include non-English sources. This is a superb resource, accessible to undergraduate students and the general reader. Annotation c2008 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)