Shortlisted for the Jabuti Prize for the Best Brazilian Book Published AbroadEngrossing ... eyeopening ... an enormously refreshing treat Dominic Sandbrook, Sunday TimesSince Europeans first reached Brazil in 1500 it has been an unfailing source of extraordinary fascination. More than any other part of the New World it displayed both the greatest beauty and grandeur and witnessed scenes of the most terrible European ferocity. Its native people both revolutionized Europes ideas of itself and were then subject to extermination. For white settlers Brazils opportunities seemed endless, for imported black slaves it was a hell on earth. Brazil A Biography, written by two of Brazils leading historians and a bestseller in Brazil itself, is a remarkable attempt to convey the overwhelming diversity and challenges of this huge country larger than the contiguous USA and still in some regions not fully mapped from its origins to the twentyfirst century. The books major themes are the nearcontinuous battles to create both political institutions and social frameworks that would allow stable growth, legal norms and protection for all its citizens. Brazils failure to achieve these except in the very short term has been tragic, but even in the 21st century it remains one of the worlds great experiments creative, harsh, unique and as compelling a story for its inhabitants as for outsiders.

Binding: Paperback;816 pages; Publisher: Penguin Books Ltd; Classification: HBJK; Weight: 672 g; Dimensions: 197 x 131 x 35

Something not quite right? You have 28 days from the day you receive it, to send something back.

Please note, we cannot offer refunds on fashion face masks, cosmetics, pierced jewellery, adult toys, and swimwear or lingerie if the hygiene seal is not in place or has been broken.

Items of footwear and/or clothing must be unworn and unwashed with the original labels attached. Also, footwear must be tried on indoors. Items of homeware including bedlinen, mattresses, and toppers, and pillows must be unused and in their original unopened packaging. This does not affect your statutory rights.

Click here to view our full Returns Policy.