44 pages 1 hour read

Matthew Restall

Seven Myths of the Spanish Conquest

Nonfiction | Book | Adult | Published in 2003

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Before You Read

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Super Short Summary

Seven Myths of the Spanish Conquest by Matthew Restall challenges and deconstructs seven widely accepted myths about the Spanish Conquest of the Americas, critiquing the traditional narratives crafted by colonial writers and adopted by modern historians. Restall uses Spanish and Nahuatl primary sources, as well as Indigenous and African perspectives, to provide a fuller and more accurate account of Conquest history, emphasizing the roles of Indigenous allies, free and enslaved Africans, and other overlooked factors. The book urges readers to question accepted truths and place historical events in a broader context.

Reviews & Readership

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Review Roundup

Matthew Restall's Seven Myths of the Spanish Conquest is lauded for its rigor and clarity, debunking long-held misconceptions about the Spanish Conquest with fresh perspectives and thorough research. Critics appreciate its accessible prose and critical approach, although some note it can be repetitive. Overall, it's a valuable contribution to historiography.

Who should read this

Who Should Read Seven Myths of the Spanish Conquest?

Readers who appreciate Seven Myths of the Spanish Conquest by Matthew Restall are history enthusiasts and scholars interested in debunking misconceptions about the Spanish Conquest. Comparable works include Howard Zinn's A People's History of the United States and Jared Diamond's Guns, Germs, and Steel.

RecommendedReading Age

18+years

Book Details

Topics

History: European

History: The Americas

History: U.S.

Themes

Society: Colonialism

Society: Politics & Government

Values/Ideas: Truth & Lies

Period

Colonialism / Postcolonialism

Genre

Latin American Literature

American Literature