Harvest of Empire; A History of Latinos in America (2nd Edition)

“Harvest of Empire: A History of Latinos in America,” authored by Juan Gonzalez, is a critically acclaimed and influential work that provides a comprehensive historical account of the Latino experience in the United States. In this second revised and updated edition, Gonzalez explores the complex history, contributions, and challenges faced by Latinos, tracing their roots from various Latin American countries to the United States.

Key aspects of the book include:

1. Historical Overview: Gonzalez delves into the historical factors that led to the migration of Latinos to the United States, examining issues such as colonialism, economic exploitation, and political upheavals in Latin America.
2. Diverse Perspectives: The book covers the diverse Latino communities in the U.S., including those with origins in Mexico, Puerto Rico, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Central America, and South America. Gonzalez highlights the unique experiences and contributions of each group.
3. Impact of U.S. Policies: The author discusses the influence of U.S. foreign policies on Latin American countries and how these policies have contributed to the patterns of immigration to the United States.
4. Socioeconomic and Political Issues: “Harvest of Empire” explores the socioeconomic challenges and political struggles faced by Latino communities in the U.S., addressing issues such as labor, civil rights, and identity.
5. Revised and Updated: The second revised and updated edition incorporates new material and perspectives, taking into account developments and changes in the Latino experience in the United States up to the time of the revision.
6. Engaging Narrative: Juan Gonzalez presents the historical narrative in an engaging and accessible manner, making it suitable for both academic readers and a broader audience interested in understanding the Latino experience in America.

“Harvest of Empire” has been praised for its depth, scholarship, and its contribution to a more nuanced understanding of the history and impact of Latinos in the United States. The book is widely used in academic settings to teach courses on Latino history, immigration, and American studies.