Colombia: Fragmented Land, Divided Society (Latin American Histories) - Softcover

Safford, Frank

Softcover

ISBN 10: 019504617X ISBN 13: 9780195046175

Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA, 2001

Synopsis

Colombia: Fragmented Land, Divided Society is a comprehensive history of the third most populous country of Latin America. It offers the most extensive discussion available in English of the whole of Colombian history-from pre-Columbian times to the present. The book begins with an in-depth look at the earliest years in Colombia's history, emphasizing the role geography played in shaping Colombia's economy, society, and politics and in encouraging the growth of distinctive regional cultures and identities. It includes a thorough discussion of Colombian politics that looks at the ways in which historical memory has affected political choices, particularly in the formation and development of the country's two traditional political parties. The authors explore the factors that have contributed to Colombia's economic troubles, such as the delay in its national economic integration and its relative ineffectiveness as an exporter. The three concluding chapters offer an authoritative and up-to-date examination of the impact of coffee on Colombia's economy and society, the social and political effects of urban growth, and the multiple dimensions of the violence that has plagued the country since 1946. Written in clear, vigorous prose, Colombia: Fragmented Land, Divided Society is essential for students of Latin American history and politics, and for anyone interested in gaining a deeper understanding of the history of this fascinating and tumultuous country.

About this title

Review:

... a useful contribution to the English-language historiograhy of Colombia. There is much here for both the novice and the more advanced student, who will surely be encouraged to make further entradas into the Colombian labyrinth. (International Affairs)

In their distinctive ways both authors contribute insights into the Colombian historical experience and they do this in a writing style that is refreshingly lucid. (International Affairs)

Synopsis:

This is a history of the country from pre-Columbian times to the present. It includes an in-depth look at the earliest years in Columbia's history which emphasizes the role geography played in shaping Columbia's economy, society, and politics. The book also includes a thorough discussion of Columbian politics which looks at the ways in which historical memory has affected political choices, particularly in the formation and development of the country's two traditional political parties. Safford and Palacios explore the factors which have contributed to Colombia's economic troubles, such as the delay in its national economic integration and its ineffective exportation policies, and conclude their book with a discussion of the often violent events which have taken place in Columbia during the 20th century.

About this edition

• Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA
• Publication date: 2001
• ISBN 10: 019504617X
• ISBN 13: 9780195046175
• Binding: Paperback
• Number of pages: 416