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1491

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2005

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Book Brief

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Charles C. Mann

1491

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2005
Book Details
Pages

541

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Americas • Pre-Columbian

Publication Year

2005

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

1210L

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Super Short Summary

Published in 2005, 1491: New Revelations of the Americas Before Columbus by Charles C. Mann challenges common misconceptions about Native American societies before European contact, presenting them as complex and sophisticated. Mann details the intricate histories of the Inca and Aztec empires, the genetic origins of Native Americans, the agricultural advancements, and the societal impacts native civilizations had on the land and on European settlers.

Informative

Challenging

Contemplative

Mysterious

Bittersweet

Reviews & Readership

4.3

95,454 ratings

77%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Charles C. Mann's 1491 offers a panoramic reexamination of pre-Columbian Americas, challenging the notion of an untamed wilderness. Praised for its thorough research and engaging prose, the book illuminates native civilizations' sophistication. Some critique its density and occasional speculative leaps. Overall, it's an enlightening, thought-provoking read.

Who should read this

Who Should Read 1491?

A reader who enjoys 1491 by Charles C. Mann is likely fascinated by pre-Columbian history and adept at engaging with comprehensive, meticulously researched narratives. Comparable works include Jared Diamond's Guns, Germs, and Steel and Ronald Wright's Stolen Continents, which also blend rigorous scholarship with compelling storytelling.

4.3

95,454 ratings

77%

Loved it

16%

Mixed feelings

7%

Not a fan

Character List

Tisquantum

Known as Squanto in some accounts, Tisquantum is a member of the Pawtuxet settlement, famous for assisting European settlers with his language skills and knowledge of local tribes during the early years of colonization in North America.

Son of Wayna Inca, Atawallpa becomes embroiled in internal conflict within the Inca Empire and plays a significant role during the Spanish conquest when he is captured by Francisco Pizarro.

A Spanish conquistador, Pizarro is notable for his expeditions to Peru and the capture and eventual execution of the Inca emperor Atawallpa, significantly impacting the Inca Empire.

Tlacaelel serves as a key figure in the Aztec Empire, holding the position of cihuacoatl, and is influential in the empire's internal affairs and its expansion in the 15th century.

A Spanish conquistador who notably leads the expedition that results in the fall of the Aztec Empire, capturing its capital city, Tenochtitlan, in 1521.

An archaeologist known for her significant work at the Caral site in Peru, Solis's discoveries help affirm the existence of ancient civilizations in the region, despite limited recognition at the time.

A Mayan king who presides over Mutal during a time of growth and development, he encounters conflict with the forces of Teotihuacan in the late 4th century A.D.

A ruler of the Mayan city-state of Kaan in the 6th century A.D., known for waging a prolonged and impactful war against the neighboring city-state of Mutal.

A 16th-century explorer known for his documented journey down the Amazon River, providing the first European description of the region, which includes tales of indigenous villages and mythical figures.

An archaeologist who wrote a pivotal book on Amazonian agriculture, arguing for the adaptive and sustainable nature of "slash and burn" farming practices in the rainforest environment.

A legendary figure credited with establishing peace among the Five Nations through the institution of the "Great Law of Peace," alongside his speaker, Ayenwatha.

Book Details
Pages

541

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

Americas • Pre-Columbian

Publication Year

2005

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

Lexile Level

1210L

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