This accessible, sweeping survey of Mexican history, from pre-Columbian times to the present, introduces critical political and economic processes that have defined the country. With ample maps and illustrations, along with historiographical inserts, this book is a guide from the earliest beginnings of a great nation down to the present day. This second edition includes the following changes: - Two additional chapters that cover the period of 2000 to 2025 - New content that thoroughly addresses cartels, criminal organizations, and drug war - The latest pre-Columbian archaeological discoveries - 10 new illustrations and 10 new inserts To understand this complex and diverse land is to study the splendor of its pre-Columbian cultures, learn the legacies of a violent conquest, and appreciate the fluorescence of three centuries of viceregal Spanish rule. It does not shirk from addressing the darker side of history. Examining the corruption of presidents and the PRI party, it candidly identifies the roots of cartel-related violence. It introduces all of the major players: from Sor Juana to Benito Juarez, Moctezuma to AMLO, Cuauhtemoc to Lazaro Cardenas, and Aleman to Zedillo. It answers the puzzling question: why is Mexico so poor when its powerful northern neighbor is so rich? John W. Sherman delivers the essentials to understanding the country. The book''s brevity and approach allow for instructors to match it up, unhindered, with their favorite social history books and material, and its easy-to-read and well-paced chapters will engage students. Readers come away with a rooted understanding of where Mexico has been and of contemporary Mexico as it really is.

Autorentext
John W. Sherman is a Professor of History at Wright State University. He is the author of five books, including The Mexican Right and Latin America in Crisis.

Inhalt

Preface
Note about the Cover Image

Part I: Ancient Civilizations

1. Great Pyramids in the Highlands
2. The Maya of Yucatán
3. Olmecs, Téenek, Aztecs

4. Conquests

   Part II: Colonial Centuries

5. The Creation of New Spain
6. Mid-Colonial Economics
7. Glimpses of Colonial Society

8. Late Colonial Reform and Revolt

   Part III: Independence and Modernity

9. The Insurmountable Divide
10. Showdown with the Americans
11. Juárez, War, and the French

12. Age of the Railroad

    Part IV: The Age of Rebellion

13. Twilight of the Porfirians
14. The Season of Rebellions
15. Return of the Strong Arm

16. The Limits of Idealism

    Part V: Structures of Power

17. Miguel Alemán - Legacy President
18. PRI-Eminence
19. Bombast, Boom, Bust

20. Crises and Control

    Afterword
    Suggestions for Further Reading
    Index