A Brief History of Peru

by Christine Hunefeldt, Bill Harris

A Brief History of Peru provides a concise yet comprehensive narrative of Peruvian history from the first civilizations established on the slopes of the Andes around the second millennium B.C.E. through the most recent social unrest and political developments. Beginning with the accomplishments of early civilizations that culminated in the great Inca Empire of the 14th to 16th centuries, the narration continues with Spanish conquest and colonization, the country's independence in 1821, and the election of centrist leader Alejandro Toledo as president in June 2001. Illuminating key historical figures and cultural hallmarks, A Brief History of Peru presents an introduction to this vibrant nation perfect for the student and general reader alike.
A chronology, a bibliography, and a list of suggested reading make up the appendices.

Genres: History, Nonfiction

320 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2004

Reviews

[J.M. Hushour · Rating 3 out of 5]

Peru is best known to Americans for two things: 1) as that country where Indiana Jones got chased by near-naked natives (twice, apparently); 2) cocaine.
And though both those things probably rate high on the list that Americans find soothing, they really aren't the meat of the real Peru.
There aren't many histories of Peru. This is one of those "Facts on File" histories, which are hit or miss, but this one is actually pretty good. It falls into the same, wearying traps all histories do: great beginning and then around 1900 or so it turns into mind-numbing economic history. However, Peru is wackier than most, having a home-grown Maoist terrorist organization, zany land reform movements, and lots of cocaine. Throw all those things together and the fun begins!

[Jim · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nice concise history of Peru. Perfect for people traveling there who want to learn a little about the country before they get there.

[Brian · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Brief history of Peru covers the entire history in a succinct and efficient manor. While it would be nice if a little more attention was paid to Manco Inca's rebellion and the importance of Bolivar; the book still succeeds in painting a picture of Peru's prosperity. The writing is very clear and well done showing how dictatorships rose and the military and civilian powers grew apart. This book also covers the Shining Path terrorist organization in very good detail setting the stage for the modern era in Peru. The confusion that the country is now gripped in is truly astounding. From violence on all sides to the election of the first Indian president the country is set for historic changes. Those who want to understand how Peru formed into the nation it is today will be well served by this book.

[Ronald · Rating 3 out of 5]

buku ini menjelaskan sejarah peru sejak sebagian cro-magnon mulai meninggalkan daratan asia hingga tiba di amerika selatan, berdirinya peradaban2 di peru (chavin-inca), zaman penjajahan spanyol, hingga peru modern.

bukunya ditulis dengan logika yang jelas, misalnya apa yang membuat Inca sebagai kekaisaran yang besar dengan mudah ditaklukkan oleh Conquistadores Spanyol dengan hanya kurang dari 200 pasukan, kenapa spanyol bisa mengalami keruntuhan, dll.