Originally published in 1938, as part of the Cambridge Historical Series, this book presents an account of the major events and key phases in the formation of Latin America. The text is divided into two main parts: the first part covers the discovery and conquest of the area by colonial powers; the second part focuses on the development of independent states in the region. Illustrative figures and maps are also included, a bibliography is contained in the preface. This is a detailed and highly readable book that will be of value to anyone with an interest in historiography and perspectives on Latin American history.