From an inauspicious start as a muddy backwater of Imperial Spain to a global trading economy, Colin M. Lewis traces the rise and fall of Argentina in this absorbing and authoritative new history. At the heart of this rich survey is the theme of paradox: why has a country with such enormous economic potential, and such cultural sophistication, suffered so badly in recent years? Focusing particularly on the last two centuries, the author outlines all the key events, from Independence to the 'dirty war', and from the Falklands conflict to the economic and political crises of 2001, while tracing the tumultuous careers of such figures as Rosas, Roca, the Perons and Carlos Menem. Offering a penetrating insight into a fascinating nation, Argentina: A Short History explores the themes of economic growth and instability, of aspiration, achievement and disillusion that characterize the enigmatic land of the conquistadores.