The United States Discovers Panama: The Writings of Soldiers, Scholars, Scientists, and Scoundrels, 1850-1905 (Paperback) (ISBN-13: 9780742527225)

Marking the centennial of Panama's separation from Colombia in 1903, this volume reprises U.S. images of the isthmus a century ago. The editors have collected a fascinating selection of articles from two of the most influential publications of the era, Harper's Monthly Magazine and the Atlantic Monthly, to illustrate the prejudices and expansionistic rhetoric of the time. An eclectic mix of adventure-seekers, naturalists, and scholars all helped a reading public in the United States "discover" Panama. Their writings show how Americans came to believe control of the isthmus was vital to their economic and political wellbeing. Constituting critically important primary sources, these articles will help readers think more critically and carefully about U.S. foreign policy and the ongoing legacy in U.S.-Latin American relations.

Author: Michael J. LaRosa
ISBN-10: 0742527220
ISBN-13: 9780742527225
Publisher: Rowman & Littlefield Publishers
Language: English
Published: 10/01/2003
Pages: 311
Format: Paperback
Weight: 1.16lbs
Size: 9.24h x 5.62w x 0.81d

Review Citation(s):
Reference and Research Bk News 02/01/2004 pg. 67