BookSeven myths of the Spanish conquest

HLAS annotation

• Restall has written a highly readable, detailed, and accessible book-length analysis of the interwoven "myths" that continue to be invoked to explain the success of the Spanish invaders in Mesoamerica (as well as in the Andes). The author dissects long-lived arguments related to the supposed "superiority" of the Spaniards, the "superstitious" shortcomings of indigenous leadership, etc., and finds them lacking, proposing more reasonable and historically viable interpretations in their place. This book is a not only a boon for classroom instruction, but offers scholars meaty and thought-provoking information as well.