Customer Reviews

The Economic History of Latin America since Independence (Cambridge Latin American Studies)

5 star:		(2)
4 star:		(0)
3 star:		(1)
2 star:		(0)
1 star:		(0)

 

 

Not a single Latin American republic has achieved the status of developed nation after nearly two hundred years from colonial rule. The vast abundance of land, labor and natural resources has not delivered the long-awaited fruits of economic growth and economic development. Victor Bulmer-Thomas provides in this book an excepcionally detailled and balanced account of the factors that affect economic progress until the initial period of implementation of market-oriented reforms. It is in summary, an incomparable source of economic history information for those in love with the Latin American region. For a complete understanding of all the materials contained in the book, certain economic background is advisable.

I confirm the five star reviews of this book. This is economic history at its best: lucid and highly informative with well constructed and convincing arguments. Bulmer-Thomas is able to cover two hundred years of the economic history of the entire region, which is no small task. This work cuts no corners; Bulmer-Thomas commands the subject. Any student of Latin America or economic history should read this book.

I'm an activist for social justice, and a fan of progressive whole cost economists like Herman Daly, David Ellerman, and Michel Aglietta. I found this work so dense and dry that it was extremely slow going and difficult to absorb. It is a macroeconomic work.
It lacks any highly detailed discussions to convey greater clarity and supply a fuller perspective, something I look for in history since I am trying to connect it to microeconomics and the larger sociopolitical context and ultimately environmental and justice issues.