About the Author

John Charles Chasteen is professor of history emeritus at UNC Chapel Hill. His classic Born in Blood and Fire is among the most widely read histories of Latin America in the English language. His other books include Heroes on Horseback: A Life and Times of the Last Gaucho Caudillos, National Rhythms, African Roots: A Deep History of Latin American Popular Dance , and Americanos: Latin America’s Struggle for Independence.