The History of Puerto Rico

by Lisa Pierce Flores

This book offers a concise yet comprehensive history of Puerto Rico, from the reign of Taino Indians through its centuries as a Spanish colony to its present-day standing as a thriving economic force in Latin America with a unique and ever-evolving relationship with the United States.

Drawing on dramatic recent developments in research, The History of Puerto Rico offers the most up-to-date and fully realized exploration of the island's past for students, travelers, and general readers alike.

The History of Puerto Rico ranges from the earliest indigenous settlements to the reign of the Taino, from the centuries under Spanish control through more than 100 years of life under the U.S. flag. Insightful and authoritative, the book helps readers understand the history behind Puerto Rico's complicated contemporary political status, its unique relationship with the United States, and the current efforts of Puerto Ricans to reclaim their indigenous and African heritage, leverage their bilingual culture for economic gain, and celebrate their cultural and artistic achievements.

196 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2009

Reviews

[Armando · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved the integrity that the author had when approaching the writing and research for this book. The text feels like mostly an overview of Puerto Rico's history, bu there are plenty of cited resources, as well as a constructed timeline of important events and people that shaped Puerto Rico that is avaliable for further research. Just overall a very well written and organized book.

As a Puerto Rican American, it was refreshing to read a textbook about my island's history and culture. Hopefully kids in school have access to a textbook such as this nowadays.

[Jhemlee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Clear and concise. I would love to read an updated version of this book considering all that has occurred over the last decade.

[Michael · Rating 3 out of 5]

clear and comprehensive, enjoyed it.

[Ezra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn't know anything about Puerto Rico before reading this, so it was A good, short introduction to Puerto Rican history. Among other things, it shows how much the U.S. has and still does treat Puerto Rico horribly.