In an accessible question-and-answer format, Richard D. Mahoney explores the many key issues running through Colombia's history, distinguishing its national experience, and fueling its unquenchable creativity.

• Historical Legacies


• 1. Conquest, Colony and Contraband


• 2. The Civil Wars of Liberation


• 3. Liberal Utopia and Conservative 'Regeneration'


• 4. The Era of Peace, the Coffee Revolution and the Liberal Republic.


• The Modern Era


• 5. 'La Violencia'


• 6. The Cold War; Insurgency and Counterinsurgency


• 7. The Drug War: The Human Rights Revolution


• 8. Neo-Liberalism and the New Military State


• Cultures of Enigma


• 9. Holy Mother Church


• 10. Citadel of Spanish


• 11. Land Violence


• 12. Race


• 13. Magical Culture


• Conclusion

Richard D. Mahoney is Professor of Public and International Affairs and Director of the School of Public and International Affairs at North Carolina State University.