Chilean Rural Society: From the Spanish Conquest to 1930 (Cambridge Latin American Studies, Series Number 21) - Hardcover

This book attempts to place in historical perspective the evolution of Chilean rural society from its foundation in the sixteenth century to 1975 and especially to explain the unusual result of accelerated economic growth after 1860. The study is placed in the broader context of general Chilean development and the rise of the Atlantic market. Professor Bauer also points out the connections and similarities between the Chilean case and other areas peripheral to the expanding world economy. Chapters are devoted to markets, prices and credit, but the main part of the book is concerned with the social and political impact of economic expansion on rural workers and the land-owning classes. A detailed explanation of agrarian structure and the position and importance of landlord and peon within national development is essential for an understanding of modern Latin America. This book is a contribution to that understanding and people interested in other times and places will find in the experience of Chile an instructive contrast in the larger pattern on modern history.

Arnold Bauer went from his family farm to study in Mexico and Berkeley and to teach Latin American Studies at the University of California at Davis. In 2005 he received the "Order of Merit Gabriela Mistral," the highest recognition the Chilean government awards for contributions to education and culture. He lives in Davis.

Marion Dane Bauer is the author of many books for young readers, including the Newbery Honor book "On My Honor" and the "New York Times" bestseller "My Mother Is Mine". Her other titles include "A Mama for Owen, If You Were Born a Kitten, Grandmother's Song, " and?"Thank You for Me!" She has recently retired from the faculty of the Vermont College of Fine Arts MFA program in Writing for Children and Young Adults where she was the first Faculty Chair. She lives in Eden Prairie, Minnesota, and can be reached at mariondanebauer.com.