This engaging book provides a brief, accessible introduction to the broad sweep of Mexican history, from pre-contact civilizations to the present. John Sherman explores the nation's rich pre-Columbian heritage, including the great pyramids of Teotihuacan, while a stand-alone chapter addresses the Yucatan Maya, including a detailed account of Chichen Itza. The drama of the conquest ushers in Mexico's three colonial centuries. The author brings to life the pageantry of viceregal reign, the power of the Roman Catholic Church, the poignancy of Sor Juana's poetry, the Virgin of Guadalupe, hacendados, silver barons, and pirates. The turmoil of the Hidalgo revolt, the loss of Texas, a cataclysmic war with the United States, French invasion, and the triumph of Benito Juarez define the era of early nationhood. He shows how the shrewd dictator Porfirio Diaz is toppled in rebellion, as Emiliano Zapata and Pancho Villa ride again. Exploring the breadth of the twentieth century, Sherman uncovers the roots of a vested oligarchy that still dominates Mexico today. In rich, vibrant narrative, he tells the dramatic tale of a nation whose history is integrally tied to that of the United States. Focusing on political and economic processes, the author provides a clear narrative, enhanced with a rich array of maps and illustrations.
Industry Reviews
Sherman has composed an exceptional text that explores primarily the economic and political history of Mexico in an accessible way. For teachers who focus on the social and cultural aspects of Mexico, Sherman's work helps fill the gaps in our lectures and teaching emphases. I have struggled in the past explaining the finer concepts of Mexican economic history in the classroom, and this book will be of great benefit to my students and to me as a scholar. Plus, the images throughout the book capture the beauty and essence of Mexico in a novel way.--Michele McArdle Stephens, West Virginia University
Sherman's fast-paced romp through more than five hundred years of Mexican history is full of insightful, sometimes unexpected twists and turns. Written in a lively prose, this richly illustrated volume will appeal to students, travelers, and specialists looking for a concise approach to a captivating country.--Stephen E. Lewis, California State University, Chico
Students will appreciate this thoughtful, readable, streamlined text. The carefully chosen images will also stimulate class discussions. Sherman's treatment of Mexico's twentieth-century history is particularly innovative and thought-provoking.--Peter V. N. Henderson, Winona State University
Sherman has composed an exceptional text that explores primarily the economic and political history of Mexico in an accessible way. For teachers who focus on the social and cultural aspects of Mexico, Sherman's work helps fill the gaps in our lectures and teaching emphases. I have struggled in the past explaining the finer concepts of Mexican economic history in the classroom, and this book will be of great benefit to my students and to me as a scholar. Plus, the images throughout the book capture the beauty and essence of Mexico in a novel way.
Sherman's fast-paced romp through more than five hundred years of Mexican history is full of insightful, sometimes unexpected twists and turns. Written in a lively prose, this richly illustrated volume will appeal to students, travelers, and specialists looking for a concise approach to a captivating country.
Students will appreciate this thoughtful, readable, streamlined text. The carefully chosen images will also stimulate class discussions. Sherman's treatment of Mexico's twentieth-century history is particularly innovative and thought-provoking.
