John Sherman offers both students and general readers a fresh look at South America's most politically volatile country. Tackling a wide variety of topics, Peru since Independence delivers a first-class, fast-paced narrative. Sherman's colorful and articulate prose will delight students and general readers interested in knowing more about South America's most frequently visited nation.

With a splendid eye for intriguing characters and storylines, John Sherman has written an exemplary narrative history of modern Peru. He captures the deep tensions and divisions that mark the country, the historical roots of its formidable contemporary challenges. Yet Peru since Independence: A Concise Illustrated History is not just gloom and doom--he highlights Peruvians' ability to adjust and resist and the role of leading cultural figures.

A wonderfully accessible synthesis of Peru's complex modern history. Evocative illustrations complement an engaging political narrative, and emphasis on personalities brings the history to life. Lively life and culture chapters explore Peru's rich artistic, literary and musical heritage.

Written in an entertainingly lively style, this book reviews the history of Andean Peru from late colonial times to the present, showing in considerable detail the way elites governed to about the 1920s. It ends with the ascendancy of Pedro Castillo who represents the long neglected native population that will no doubt play a significant role in the future.