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A Short Account of the Destruction of the Indies

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1552

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Bartolome de Las Casas

A Short Account of the Destruction of the Indies

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 1552
Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

The Indies • 16th Century

Publication Year

1552

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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Super Short Summary

A Short Account of the Destruction of the Indies by Bartolome de Las Casas documents the genocide of indigenous peoples in the Americas from 1509-1542. Written as an appeal to Charles V of Spain, it condemns Spanish atrocities, urges protective legislation, and argues against granting new colonization licenses. The text is a chronological and geographically focused account, highlighting the devastation inflicted on native populations and landscapes. Descriptions of violence and cruelty are prevalent throughout the work.

Dark

Unnerving

Informative

Melancholic

Reviews & Readership

4.1

4,519 ratings

64%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

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Review Roundup

Bartolome de Las Casas' A Short Account of the Destruction of the Indies offers a powerful, harrowing depiction of the Spanish colonial atrocities. Critics praise its vivid narrative and historical significance. However, some find its repetitive nature challenging. Overall, it's a crucial, impactful work for understanding colonial history.

Who should read this

Who Should Read A Short Account of the Destruction of the Indies?

A reader who would enjoy A Short Account of the Destruction of the Indies by Bartolome de Las Casas is interested in early colonial history, social justice, and human rights. Comparable to readers of Bury My Heart at Wounded Knee by Dee Brown and The Other Slavery by Andrés Reséndez, they seek to understand historical injustices and indigenous perspectives.

4.1

4,519 ratings

64%

Loved it

26%

Mixed feelings

11%

Not a fan

Book Details
Pages

192

Format

Book • Nonfiction

Setting

The Indies • 16th Century

Publication Year

1552

Audience

Adult

Recommended Reading Age

18+ years

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