"Relatively bland historical introduction for general readers emphasizes economic development, social inequality, and apparent inability of reforms to address inequality. Begins in 1500, but more than half of volume is devoted to post-1930 Brazil and contemporary issues. Getulio Vargas is central both as a reformist turning point in politics and as a representative enigma. Useful, but much less piquant and heartfelt than author's Brazilian legacies...

Chronicles the history of the former French colony from the earliest clashes between natives and settlers to the current day.