"This book provides a concise, accessible introduction to the broad sweep of Mexican history, from pre-contact civilizations to the present. Focusing on political and economic processes, John Sherman provides a clear narrative, enhanced with a rich array of images."-- Provided by publisher.

PART I Ancient Civilizations -- Great Pyramids in the Highlands -- The Maya of Yucatán -- Olmecs, Téenek, Aztecs -- Conquests -- PART II Colonial Centuries -- The Creation of New Spain -- Mid-Colonial Economics -- Mid-Colonial Society -- Late Colonial Reform and Revolt -- PART III Independence and Modernity -- The Insurmountable Divide -- Showdown with the Americans -- Juárez, War, and the French -- Age of the Railroad -- PART IV The Age of Rebellion -- Twilight of the Porfirians -- The Season of Rebellions -- Return of the Strong Arm -- The Limits of Idealism -- PART V Structures of Power -- Miguel Alemán -- Legacy President -- PRI-Eminence -- Bombast, Boom, Bust -- Crisis and Control.