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Born in Blood and Fire: A Concise History of Latin America

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2001

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Book Brief

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John Charles Chasteen

Born in Blood and Fire

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2001
Book Details
Pages

400

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Latin America • Historical Eras

Publication Year

2001

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

Born in Blood and Fire by John Charles Chasteen provides a comprehensive history of Latin America from the time of Columbus's landing to the modern era, highlighting themes of colonialism, independence, economic turmoil, industrialization, the Cold War, and cultural developments while including stories of lesser-known historical figures, women, artists, and writers. The book addresses sensitive topics including colonial violence, enslavement, and dictatorial regimes.

Informative

Mysterious

Challenging

Contemplative

Reviews & Readership

4.1

2,462 ratings

71%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

John Charles Chasteen’s Born in Blood and Fire is praised for its engaging narrative and comprehensive overview of Latin American history, making it accessible to both students and general readers. Critics appreciate its balanced approach, though some note the occasional lack of depth in certain areas. Overall, it’s a commendable introductory text.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Born in Blood and Fire?

Readers who enjoy engaging, comprehensive overviews of Latin American history would appreciate Born in Blood and Fire by John Charles Chasteen. Ideal for fans of Eduardo Galeano's Open Veins of Latin America and Hugh Thomas's The Conquest of Mexico, it combines scholarly rigor with accessible narrative.

4.1

2,462 ratings

71%

Loved it

25%

Mixed feelings

4%

Not a fan

Character List

John Charles Chasteen

An academic and historian focused on Latin American culture and history. He has written several works, including *Born in Blood and Fire*, *Heroes on Horseback: A Life and Times of the Last Gaucho Caudillos*, and *Americanos: Latin America's Struggle for Independence*.

The infamous Spanish conquistador known for leading the expedition that led to the fall of the Aztec Empire and the subsequent colonization of much of mainland Mexico in the early 16th century.

A Creole priest in New Spain who is known for initiating Mexico's struggle for independence from Spanish rule with his historic call to arms, the "Grito de Dolores."

A key military and political leader in Latin America's successful struggle for independence from the Spanish Empire, earning him the nickname "The Liberator."

A military and political leader in Argentina who ruled as a caudillo, known for his authoritarian governance and role in the power struggles of post-colonial Argentina.

A Mexican political leader and general who played a major role in Mexico's political upheaval during the 19th century, including serving as President of Mexico multiple times and fighting in the Texas Revolution.

The second and last emperor of Brazil, who reigned during a period of economic prosperity and helped lead Brazil towards gradual abolition of slavery.

A Cuban-born writer and poet who became notable for her progressive ideas and works that challenged the traditional roles of women, including her novel *Sab*.

A Mexican general and politician who served as President of Mexico, known for his long and authoritarian rule that sparked significant developments in the country.

The Cuban revolutionary and political leader who overthrew the Batista regime and led Cuba as Prime Minister and President, establishing a socialist state allied with the Soviet Union.

Book Details
Pages

400

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Latin America • Historical Eras

Publication Year

2001

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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