Throughout its history Nicaragua has been plagued by corruption, social and racial inequality, civil unrest, and foreign interference. Yet despite being the second poorest nation in South America, Nicaragua maintains a rich and vibrant culture that reflects its strong Catholic devotion, diverse indigenous roots, and overwhelming zest for life. Culture and Customs of Nicaragua introduces students and general readers to Nicaragua's unique blend of religious and traditional holidays, so numerous that the country is said to be in a constant state of celebration; its growing film industry; its many styles of dance, the popular street theatre open to all bystanders; important contributions to Spanish literature, local cuisines, architecture, social norms, and more. Readers learn what it is like to live in one of Latin America's most disillusioned countries but also discover the passionate culture that defines and sustains the Nicaraguan people.

Steven F. White is an independent historian residing in Frederick Maryland, USA. The recipient of two Fulbright awards and a research fellowship at European University Institute, he has taught at the University of Virginia, Averett University, the University of Perugia, Mount St. Mary's University and the U.S. State Department's Foreign Service Institute. He has published widely on modern Italian social and political history, including Progressive Renaissance: America and the Reconstruction of Italian Education, 1943-1962 (1991).

Series Foreword
Preface
Acknowledgments
Chronology
1 Context
2 Religion and Religious Celebrations
3 Social Customs
4 Nicaraguan Folklore & Legends
5 Literature
6 Media
7 Cinema and Photography
8 Performing Arts
9 Visual Arts
10 Architecture and Housing
Appendix: Calendar of Important Religious Festivals
Bibliography
Index