Pepper, Charles M.: Panamá to Patagonia. The Isthmian canal and the west coast countries of South America. By Charles M. Pepper, author of “To-morrow in Cuba.” New York, Young people’s missionary movement of the United States and Canada, [1906]. xx [i], 398 [1] pp. 8ᵒ. 4 maps. 50 illus.
In the preface the author indicates that his volume is “to be limited more strictly to industrial, fiscal and political information,” and, with this in mind, he gives an excellent account of the countries of the west coast, and suggests the possible effects of the Panamá canal upon them; the style is easy, vigorous and sometimes picturesque; there are no statements as to the sources of information; the illustrations are well chosen and admirably executed.
Peralta, D. Manuel M. de: Costa Rica y costa de mosquitos. Documentos para la historia de la jurisdicción territorial de Costa Rica y Columbia. Publicados por D. Manuel M. de Peralta, enviado extraordinario y ministro plenipotenciario de Costa Rica. Paris, 1898. iii, 566 pp. 8ᵒ.
Of importance to the historian who may be interested in the study of the boundaries of Costa Rica and Colombia.
Petre, F[rancis] Loraine: The republic of Colombia. An account of the country, its people, its institutions and its resources. By F[rancis] Loraine Petre, author of “Napoleon’s campaign in Poland, 1806-1807.” With numerous illustrations and a map. London, Edward Stanford, 1906. x, 346 pp. 8ᵒ. front. 1 map. 36 illus.
An undocumented but readable and interesting sketch, covering geography, history, political constitution, population, industries, means of communication and commerce; while not so well done as this author’s work on Bolívar, it is worthy of consideration.
Petre, F[rancis] Loraine: Simon Bolivar, “El libertador.” A life of the chief leader in the revolt against Spain in Venezuela, New Granada and Peru. By F[rancis] Loraine Petre. With a photogravure frontispiece and a map. London and New York, John Lane co., MCMX. xiii, 459 pp. 8ᵒ. front. 1 map. 2 illus.
A standard work, well written and documented; worthy of the attention of serious students, and capable of being enjoyed by all; with a bibliography at the beginning.
Phillips, P. Lee: A list of books, magazine articles, and maps relating to Brazil, 1800-1900. Prepared by P. Lee Phillips, F.R.G.S., chief of division of maps and charts, library of Congress. A supplement of the Handbook of Brazil (1901) compiled by the bureau of the American republics. Washington, Government printing office, 1901. 8ᵒ. 145 pp.
About 1500 titles are listed.
Pimentel, Francisco: Cuadro descriptivo y comparativo de las lenguas indígenas de México. Por D. Francisco Pimentel, socio de número de la sociedad Mexicana de Geografía y Estadística. (In 2 vols. 12mo.) México, imprenta de Andrade y Escalante, 1862. Vol. I. lii, 539 pp. Vol. II. vi, 427 pp.
In the first volume the following languages are discussed: Huaxteco; Mixteco; Mame or Zaklohpakap; Othomí or Hiahiu; Mexicano, Nahuatl or Azteca; Totonaco; Tarasco; Zapoteco; Tarahumar; Opata or Teguima; Cahita; Matlatzinca or Pirinda; in the second volume, Yucateco or Maya; Tepehuán; Cora, Chora or Chota; Pima or Névome; Quiché, Cachiquel and Zutuhil; Eudeva, Heve or Dohema; Mixe; Mazahua or Mazahui; Guaicura or Vaicura; Cochimí and Laimón; Chañabal, Chiapaneco, Chol, Tzendal, Zoque Tzotzil; Joba, Lipán, Papago and Tubar; Cuicateco, Mazateco, Chuchon; Pame and Serrano; and in the appendix, Comanche; Mutsún; Tatché or Telamé; Tejano or Coahuilteco; and certain languages of Lower California; scholarly and of very great value to the student.
Post, Charles Johnson: Across the Andes. By Charles Johnson Post. A tale of wandering days among the mountains of Bolivia and the jungles of the upper Amazon. Illustrated by the author. New York, Outing publishing co., MCMXII. 362 pp. 8ᵒ. front. 55 illus.
An unpretentious book of interesting travel, unmarred by the usual interjection of useless bits of history.
Prescott, William H.: History of the conquest of Mexico, with a preliminary view of the ancient Mexican civilization and life of the conqueror, Hernando Cortés. By William H. Prescott, author of the “History of Ferdinand and Isabella.” (In 3 vols. 8ᵒ.) New York, Harper & bros., MDCCCXLIII. Vol. I. xxxiv, 488 pp. front. 1 map. 4 illus. Vol. II. xviii, 430 pp. front. 1 map. Vol. III. xvii, 524 pp. front. 1 plt. 1 illus.
One of the classics of North American literature, which, in spite of its numerous errors in statements of facts and its many misconceptions, all of which are made clear by the later accumulations of knowledge, still remains the most entertaining and interesting work in English regarding the conquest of México; it is a reproach to those who have lived since the time of this distinguished author that none has been able to use the manifold opportunities afforded by a greatly increased original literature, and ample facilities for local investigation, to produce a history of the period that would surpass or even rival this great production.
Prescott, William H.: History of the conquest of Peru, with a preliminary view of the civilization of the Incas. By William H. Prescott, corresponding member of the French institute, of the royal academy of history at Madrid, etc. In two volumes. New York, Harper & bros., MDCCCXLVII. Vol. I. xxxvii, 527 pp. 8ᵒ. front. 1 map. Vol. II. xix, 547 pp. 8ᵒ. front. 1 plt.
Too well known to need characterization; after making full allowance for recognized imperfections, it will always remain one of the classics of this literature.
Prida, Ramón: De la dictadura a la anarquia. Apuntes para la historia política de Mexico durante los últimos cuarenta y tres años. Por Ramon Prida, miembro del ilustre y nacional colegio de Abogados de Mexico, ex-juez de primera instancia en el puerto de Veracruz. (In 2 vols. 12mo.) El Paso, Texas, imprenta de “El Paso del Norte,” 1914. Vol. I. 365 pp. Vol. II. 364 pp.
A political work, whose motive was to give the history and the defense of the so-called “partido científico,” to which the author belonged, and regarding which he was well informed, as it was his province to lurk behind the scenes and watch the course of events; it traces the decline of the Díaz régime, and reveals the secret jealousies and machinations that in part account for it; it characterizes the aged dictator as an astute but implacable egotist, Corral, as his victim, and Limantour, as a cynic, disloyal to his chief, rejoicing from afar at sight of the great man’s overthrow; although but fairly well documented, and lacking that impartiality which is to be desired in a history, it is the most instructive work yet written regarding recent events in México.
Prieto, Guillermo (Fidel): Memorias de mis tiempos, 1828 a 1840. París y México. Librería de la vda. de C. Bouret, 1906. 447 pp. 8ᵒ. front. of author.
The period covered is in reality from 1828 until 1853; it is of great value, since it reflects the views of a literary man regarding many interesting personages and events.
[Quesada, Ernesto]: La política argentina respecto de Chile. (1895-1898.) [By Ernesto Quesada.] Buenos Aires, Arnoldo Moen, 1898. 239 pp. 8ᵒ.
A vigorous discussion of Argentina’s dealings with Chile by one who, although essentially partisan to his own country, knew well the republic to the westward, and was able to accord it respectful consideration.
Ramírez, José Fernando: México durante su guerra con los Estados Unidos. México, librería de la vda. de Ch. Bouret, 1905. (Under caption: “Documentos inéditos ó muy raros para la historia de México publicados por Genaro García y Carlos Pereyra.” Tomo III.) viii, 322 pp. 12mo.
Invaluable for the historian.
Reed, John: Insurgent Mexico. By John Reed. New York and London, D. Appleton & co., 1914. viii, 325 [1] pp. 12mo.
A reporter’s story which, for some unaccountable reason achieved publication; the following offerings, taken at random, are supposed to be Spanish: “trista historia d’amor,” “frijole,” “arré mulas,” “carne crudo,” “christiano,” “gachupine;” this is the general style of the book; even this could be forgiven if the matter were interesting.
René-Moreno, Gabriel: Bolivia y Argentina. Notas biográficas y bibliográficas. Por Gabriel René-Moreno. Santiago de Chile, imprenta Cervantes, 1901. 553 pp. 12mo.
An instructive series of sketches under the following titles: “Buenos Aires en 1879,” “Benjamín Vicuña Mackenna,” “Letras argentinas,” “Nicomedes Antelo,” “El doctor don José Segovia,” “El doctor don Felipe Antonio de Iriarte,” “Don Ángel Justiniano Carranza,” “Documentos sobre la revolución alto-peruana,” “Juan Ramón Muñoz Cabrera.”
René-Moreno, Gabriel: Bolivia y Perú. Nuevas notas históricas y bibliográficas. Por Gabriel René-Moreno. Santiago de Chile, sociedad, imprenta y litografía Universo, 1907. xii, 676 pp. 12mo.
A serious and scholarly account of certain events and periods in the history of the struggle for independence, particularly as participated in by Bolivia and Perú, supported by abundant references to original sources of information.
Reyes, General Rafael: The two Americans. By General Rafael Reyes, ex-president of the republic of Colombia. Translated from the Spanish, with added notes by Leopold Grahame. New York, Frederick A. Stokes co., MCMXIV. xxxii, 324 pp. 8ᵒ.
Without attempting to furnish a complete history of the various republics, the author says in the introduction, “This work represents a record of my recent travels through the Latin countries.” A moderately interesting account of personal observations and opinions by a prominent South American of considerable experience, actuated by a desire to better the relations between the citizens of the republics of this hemisphere.
Rives, George Lockhart: The United States and Mexico, 1821-1848. A history of the relations between the two countries from the independence of Mexico to the close of the war with the United States. By George Lockhart Rives. 2 vols. New York, Charles Scribner’s sons, 1913. Vol. I. viii, 720 pp. 8ᵒ. 3 maps. Vol. II. vi, 726 pp. 8ᵒ. 12 maps.
The first volume contains a narrative of our history in the southwestern part of the United States, and of our relations with México there preceding the war of 1847; the second, a comprehensive history of our war with México; characterized by absence of partisan tone; scholarly yet readable; original sources, both manuscript and printed, have been used with care and discrimination; characterization vivid yet judicious; the whole shows an appreciation of the point of view of Mexicans.
Robertson, William Spence: The beginnings of Spanish-American diplomacy. (Contained in “Essays in American history,” dedicated to Frederick Jackson Turner.) New York, Henry Holt & co., 1910. pp. 231-267. 8ᵒ.
A well documented and carefully prepared monograph.
Robinson, Albert G.: Cuba and the intervention. By Albert G. Robinson. New York, London and Bombay, Longmans, Green & co., 1905. [iii], 354 pp. 8ᵒ.
A book that contains considerable information regarding the period which it covers, in spite of its lack of perspective, and its defects of style and emphasis.
Rodríguez, José Ignacio: American constitutions. A compilation of the political constitutions of the independent nations of the New World, with short historical notes and various appendixes. By José Ignacio Rodríguez, chief translator and librarian. (Under page caption: “International bureau of American republics.”) (In 2 vols. 8ᵒ.) Washington, Government printing office. Vol. I, 1906. 422 pp. Vol. II, 1907. 452 pp.
These volumes contain four parts: the first and second parts are found in Volume I, the third and fourth in Volume II. Part one contains the constitutions of the United States of America, in English and Spanish; of México, Argentina and Venezuela, in Spanish and English; and of Brazil, in Portuguese, Spanish and English; part two, those of Guatemala, Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Honduras and Panamá, in Spanish and English; part three, those of the Dominican republic and Cuba, in Spanish and English, and of Haití, in French, English and Spanish; part four, those of Uruguay, Chile, Perú, Ecuador, Colombia, Paraguay and Bolivia, in Spanish and English.
Naturally this work is invaluable for the student of history or government.
Rodway, James: The West Indies and the Spanish main. By James Rodway. London, T. Fisher Unwin; New York, G. P. Putnam’s sons, MDCCCXCVI. xxiv, 371 pp. 12mo. front. 1 map. 48 illus.
An account of the discovery, settlement and early history of the islands and continental countries of the Caribbean; not documented, yet worthy of consideration.
Rojas, Arístides: Estudios indígenas. Contribuciones a la historia antigua de Venezuela. Por Arístides Rojas, laureado de la universidad central de Venezuela, etc. Obra mandada publicar por orden del gran demócrata, general Francisco Linares Alcántara, presidente constitucional de los Estados Unidos de Venezuela. Caracas, imprenta Nacional, 1878. 217 [2] pp. 8ᵒ.
Of importance and value for students of primitive speech and ideas.
Romero, Matías: Mexico and the United States. A study of subjects affecting their political, commercial and social relations, made with a view to their promotion. By Matias Romero. New York and London, G. P. Putnam’s sons, 1898. xxxiv, 759 pp. 8ᵒ. 1 map. 2 diagrams.
A geographical, statistical, climatological, historical, industrial, commercial and juridical conglomerate; valuable, although not always either frank or thorough.
Root, Excmo. Sr. Elihu: Visita al Peru del secretario de estado de los Estados Unidos, Excmo. Sr. Elihu Root. Visit to Peru of the Hon. Elihu Root, secretary of state of the United States. Lima, imp. Americana (de E. Andrade y cía., Santo Toribio), 1906. 150 pp. 12 mo. [69 illus.]
An account in Spanish and English of Mr. Root’s visit, and of the honors done him, and a report of addresses made by him and his hosts; interesting evidence of the good impression he produced.
Ross, Edward Alsworth: South of Panamá. By Edward Alsworth Ross, Ph.D., LL.D., professor of sociology, university of Wisconsin, author of “Social control,” “Social psychology,” “The changing Chinese,” “The old world in the new,” etc. New York, The Century co., 1915. xvi, 396 pp. front. 1 map. 78 illus.
This well advertised book, in spite of the many laudatory reviews that have hailed its advent, is, nevertheless, disappointing in its plausible presentation of striking half-truths, careless observations, and hasty and too sweeping generalizations; in style it abounds in the reportorial characteristics of vigor and sprightliness, with scant regard for finish, or accuracy, even in such easy details as the spelling of foreign words; it is but another illustration of the fact that honesty of purpose in seeking and publishing the truth, at any cost, of which boast is made in the preface, is but an imperfect substitute for thorough knowledge.
[Roxlo, Carlos:] El Uruguay en 1904. La guerra civil. [By Carlos Roxlo.] Buenos Aires, J. Moloney, 1904. 290 pp. 12mo. Front.
A popular history of the period.
Ruhl, Arthur: The other Americans. The cities, the countries, and especially the people of South America. By Arthur Ruhl. Illustrated. New York, Charles Scribner’s sons, 1908. xi, 298 pp. 12mo. front. 1 map. 43 illus.
The easy chat of a sympathetic and alert observer, regarding a trip through most of the countries of South America, with good descriptions, occasional dialogues marred by absurd Spanish, fragments of history, and statistics of the kind that need revision within a year of their publication.
Sahagún, M. R. P. Fr. Bernardino de: Historia universal de las cosas de Nueva España. Por el M. R. P. Fr. Bernardino de Sahagun, de la orden de los frayles menores de la observancia. (In Kingsborough’s Mexican Antiquities, Vol. VII.) 464 pp. folio.
A storehouse of information regarding the Indians, with whom the author had spent much of his life, and from whom he collected details concerning their history, religious ideas, customs, etc.; of prime importance to the serious student.
St. John, Sir Spenser [Buckingham]: Hayti or the black republic. By Sir Spenser [Buckingham] St. John, K.C.M.G., formerly her majesty’s minister resident and consul-general in Hayti, now her majesty’s special envoy to Mexico. London, Smith, Elder & co., 1884. xiv, 343 pp. 12mo. front. 1 map.
Not properly documented yet readable and worthy of consideration, in lieu of thoroughly satisfactory books on this subject.
Salvador: General descriptive data prepared in June, 1909. By the International bureau of American republics. Washington, D.C., Government printing office, 1909. 11 pp. 8ᵒ. pamph. 2 illus.
See comment on the similar pamphlet: “Argentine republic, the: General descriptive data,” etc.
Savage-Landor, A. Henry: Across unknown South America. By A. Henry Savage-Landor. With 2 maps, 8 colored plates, and 260 illustrations from photographs by the author. (In 2 vols. 4ᵒ.) London, New York, and Toronto, Hodder & Stoughton, [1913]. Vol. I. xxiv, 432 pp. front. 2 maps. 105 illus. Vol. II. xvi, 504 pp. front. in colors. 158 illus.
An ambitious work, ornately bound, finely printed and profusely illustrated; in the main, the descriptions are of journeys through regions not “unknown” but well known; owing to its general untrustworthiness of statement and the untenableness of the theories propounded, it has no scientific value; page after page of wearisome colloquies and details of travel rob it of interest for discriminating minds.
Schmidt, Ulrich, and Cabeza de Vaca, Alvar Núñez: The conquest of the river Plate (1535-1555). I. Voyage of Ulrich Schmidt to the rivers La Plata and Paraguai, from the original German edition, 1567. II. With the commentaries of Alvar Núñez Cabeza de Vaca, from the original Spanish edition, 1555. Translated for the Hakluyt society with notes and an introduction by Luis L. Domínguez, minister plenipotentiary of the Argentine republic, corresponding member of the Argentine geographical institute and of the Royal Spanish academy of history. London, the Hakluyt society, MDCCCXCI. xxxviii, 282 pp. 8ᵒ. 1 map.
Accounts of much interest and importance to students of history who desire to consult “original documents.”
Scott, William R[obert]: The Americans in Panama. By William R[obert] Scott. Illustrated. New York, The Statler publishing co., 1912. xiii, 258 pp. 12mo. front. 19 illus.
The author claims to have spent five months in Panamá, during three of which he served as an employee of the Canal commission; he therefore felt qualified to write a book, taking little account of his evident lack of literary qualification; he has therefore produced a hodge-podge of history, statistics and biographical details, illustrated by commonplace pictures, which if it has any value, may serve merely as a gazetteer of the construction service.
Scruggs, William L.: The Colombian and Venezuelan republics. With notes on other parts of Central and South America. By William L. Scruggs, late envoy extraordinary and minister plenipotentiary of the United States to Colombia and to Venezuela. With maps and illustrations. Boston, Little, Brown & co., 1900. xii, 350 pp. 12mo. front. 3 maps. 10 illus.
Characterized by a naïve inaccuracy in Spanish orthography that is at least original, if somewhat disconcerting, a disregard of facts, and a general ignorance of history that leads one to wonder as to how the author might have employed the twenty-seven years which he says he spent in South America; if he had given, as he promised to give, more of his “personal experiences,” and less of his “studies,” this book might not have been wholly useless.
Seler, Eduard: On the present state of our knowledge of the Mexican and Central American hieroglyphic writing. By Eduard Seler. (In proceedings of the International congress of American history, 13th session, New York, 1902.) [Easton, Pennsylvania, Eschenbach printing co., 1905.] pp. 157-170. 8ᵒ.
A valuable review of efforts at interpretation, with allusions to the various theories of other writers.
Shepherd, William R.: Latin America. By William R. Shepherd, professor of history in Columbia university; honorary professor in the university of Chile; corresponding member of the Spanish Royal academy of history, of the Argentine scientific society, and of the National academy of history of Venezuela; member of the Hispanic society of America. New York, Henry Holt & co.; London, Williams & Norgate, [1914]. viii, 265 pp. 16mo. 1 map.
An excellent primer, which gives more valuable information than any other work of a similar character in so small a compass; the author has succeeded admirably in achieving the Latin American point of view; only slight inconsistencies in the spelling of place names need to be pardoned.
Skottsberg, Carl: The wilds of Patagonia. A narrative of the Swedish expedition to Patagonia, Tierra del Fuego and the Falkland islands in 1907-1909. By Carl Skottsberg, D.Sc., etc. London, Edward Arnold, 1911. xix, 336 pp. 8ᵒ. front. 3 maps. 53 illus.
An interesting account of a two years’ stay by three university men in Patagonia; very valuable for the study of a region about which so little is known or written.
Smith, F[rancis] Hopkinson: A white umbrella in Mexico. By F[rancis] Hopkinson Smith. With illustrations by the author. Boston and New York, Houghton, Mifflin & co., 1891. viii, 227 pp. 16ᵒ. 36 illus.
In his introduction the author says: “My probe has not gone very far below the surface. The task would have been uncongenial and the result superfluous. The record of the resources, religions, politics, governments, social conditions and misfortunes of Mexico already enlarges many folios and lies heavy on many shelves, and I hope on some consciences.” Practising this admirable restraint, he has presented what appealed to him as a painter and an idler in a manner that both charms and enlightens, his account being greatly enhanced by the pictures; it would be too much to expect that he would attend to so trivial a matter as accuracy in the Spanish introduced.
Smith, W. Anderson: Temperate Chile. A progressive Spain. By W. Anderson Smith, author of “Lewsiana,” “Benderloch,” “Shepherd Smith, the universalist,” etc. London, Adam and Charles Black, 1899. 399 pp. 8ᵒ. front. 1 map.
Overlooking a tendency to belaud his countrymen and their achievements on the west coast, and unconsciously to patronize those among whom he confesses to having found friends, this author may be deemed a good reporter upon the conditions which he encountered, without attempting excursions into fields with which he was not familiar.
Solís [y Ribadeneyra], Antonio de: Historia de la conquista de Méjico, poblacion y progresos de la America Septentrional, conocida por el nombre de Nueva España. Escribiala don Antonio de Solís [y Ribadeneyra], secretario de su majestad, y su cronista mayor de las Indias. Nueva edicion, aumentada con un resumen histórico, desde la rendicion de Méjico hasta el fallecimiento de Hernan Cortés, é illustrado con notas por don José de la Revilla, individuo de varios cuerpos literarios. Paris, Vᵃ. Baudry, Libreria europea; New York, Roe Lockwood & son, 1858. 488 pp. 8ᵒ. front.
A classic, both in literary style and in its grandiose descriptions of men, facts and occurrences; although somewhat discredited because of its too ready acceptance of unauthenticated statements and its tendency to glorify unduly the prowess of both the Spaniards and the Indians, it must be considered by every historian.
Southey, Robert: History of Brazil. By Robert Southey. Second edition. London, printed for Longman, Hurst, Rees, Orme, and Brown. Part the first, 1822. xvi, 715 [xlii] pp. 4ᵒ. 1 map. Part the second, 1817. xvi, 718 [i] pp. 4ᵒ. Part the third, 1819. xx, 950 pp. 4ᵒ.
Although written with the bias of the period to which it belongs, it is systematically documented and worthy of consideration.
Speer, Robert E[lliott]: South American problems. By Robert E[lliott] Speer. New York, Student volunteer movement for foreign missions, 1912. viii, 270 pp. 12mo. 1 map. 19 illus.
A superficial sketch, containing fragments of ancient history, and a general description of all the countries of South America, with special attention to education, the Catholic religion, and the Protestant missions, written in a good spirit, and of value to students of these subjects.
Squier, E[phraim] G[eorge]: Honduras; descriptive, historical and statistical. By E[phraim] G[eorge] Squier, formerly chargé d’affaires of the United States to the republics of Central America. Issued by permission of the author, and under the authority of his excellency don Carlos Gutierrez, envoy extraordinary and minister plenipotentiary of the republic of Honduras in Great Britain. London, Trübner & co., 1870. viii, 178 pp. Small 12mo. front. 1 map.
Unpretentious, sane and too valuable to be overlooked by any student of the country.
Squier, E[phraim] George: Peru. Incidents of travel and exploration in the land of the Incas. By E[phraim] George Squier, M.A., F.S.A., late United States commissioner to Peru, etc. With illustrations. New York, Harper & bros., 1877. xx, 599 pp. 8ᵒ. front. 5 maps. 250 illus.
An important pioneer work of enduring usefulness, pardoning, of course, occasional vagaries in Spanish.
Starr, Frederick: In Indian Mexico. A narrative of travel and labor. By Frederick Starr. Chicago, Forbes & co., 1908. x, 425 pp. 8ᵒ. front. 96 illus.
A valuable and picturesque description of life and customs among the Indians of southern México by a trained ethnologist.
Starr, Frederick: Recent Mexican study of the native languages of Mexico. By Frederick Starr. (Under caption: “The university of Chicago, department of anthropology, bulletin iv.”) Chicago, the university of Chicago press, 1900. 18 pp. 8ᵒ. pamph.
A valuable bibliography of important works by modern Mexicans upon the native languages of México.
Terry, T. Philip: Terry’s Mexico. Handbook for travellers. By T. Philip Terry. With two maps and twenty-five plans. City of Mexico, Sonora news co.; Boston, Houghton Mifflin co., 1909. ccxl, 595 pp. 16ᵒ. 2 maps. 25 plans.
Valuable, both for the traveler and for the student at home.
Tezozomoc, Fernando de Alvarado: Cronica mexicana de Fernando de Alvarado Tezozomoc. (In Kingsborough’s “Mexican Antiquities,” Vol. IX.) 192 pp. folio.
A work (by an Indian) that deals with the history, the beliefs and the customs of the Aztecs or Mexicans, which may not be overlooked by the historian, although, like similar writings of the period, it must be subjected to critical scrutiny and accepted at its proper value.
Thomas, Cyrus: Discoveries in the Mexican and Maya codices. The American antiquarian and oriental journal, March, 1886. Chicago, F. H. Revell. pp. 69-76. 8ᵒ. 3 illus.
An unsuccessful effort at interpretation, yet of interest to specialists in the study of picture writing.
Thompson, Edward H.: Archæological researches in Yucatan. Reports of explorations for the museum. By Edward H. Thompson. (Under caption: “Memoirs of the Peabody museum of American archæology and ethnology, Harvard university. Vol. III, No. 1.”) Cambridge, Massachusetts, the Museum, 1904. 20 pp. folio. 1 map. 9 plts. 10 illus. in the text.
A good account of interesting explorations, printed in the luxurious style of this museum upon fine paper with wide margins, and admirably illustrated.
Thompson, Edward H.: Cave of Loltun, Yucatan. Report of explorations by the Museum, 1888-89 and 1890-91. (Under caption: “Memoirs of the Peabody museum of American archæology and ethnology, Harvard university, Vol. I, No. 2.”). Cambridge, Massachusetts, the Museum, 1897. 24 pp. folio. 8 plts. 16 illus. in the text.
See comment on the preceding.
Thompson, Edward H.: The Chultunes of Labná, Yucatan. Report of the explorations by the Museum, 1888-89 and 1890-91. (Under caption: “Memoirs of the Peabody museum of American archæology and ethnology, Harvard university. Vol. I, No. 3.”) Cambridge, Massachusetts, the Museum, 1897. 20 pp. folio. 13 plts. 13 illus. in the text.
See comment above.
Thompson, George: The war in Paraguay with an historical sketch of the country and its people and notes upon the military engineering of the war. By George Thompson, C.E., lieutenant-colonel of engineers in the Paraguayan army, aide-de-camp to president Lopez, knight of the order of merit of Paraguay, etc. With maps, plans and a portrait of Lopez. London, Longmans, Green & co., 1869. 347 pp. 12mo. front. 5 maps. 3 illus.
An interesting account of persons and events by one who was in a position to make observations, with few references to authorities; the occasional efforts at etymology are not felicitous.
Torres Caicedo, J[osé] M[aría]: Union latino-americana. Pensamiento de Bolivar para formar una liga americana; su origen y sus desarrollos y estudio sobre la gran cuestion que tanto interesa a los estados débiles, a saber: ¿un gobierna légitimo es responsable por los daños y perjuicios ocasionados a los extranjeros por las facciones? Por J[osé] M[aría] Torres Caicedo, antiguo encargado de negocios de Venezuela, miembro de la socie[dad] de Economía Política de Paris, de la sociedad de Literatos de Francia, de la sociedad de Geografía de Paris y de várias otras sociedades científicas y literarias de Europa y de América, etc. Paris, libreria de Rosa y Bouret, 1865. 385 pp. 12mo.
An undocumented work by an experienced and distinguished diplomat and historian; of great value to the serious student who may be interested in the course of the relations between the American republics; the following are the main subjects discussed; confederacy and federation, and explanation of the early convulsions of Latin America, the union of the struggling colonies achieved in advance of a theoretical basis, the congress at Panamá in 1826, later efforts at union, the American congress at Lima in 1847, continental treaty between Chile, Perú and Ecuador, plans for uniting the five republics of Central America, an interpretation of the true Monroe doctrine, a discussion of British and North American diplomacy with reference to Latin America, documents.
Uhle, Dr. Max: Pachacamac. Report of the William Pepper, M.D., LL.D., Peruvian expedition of 1896. By Dr. Max Uhle. Plan of the city and twenty-one plates in phototype. Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, published by the department of archæology of the university of Pennsylvania, 1903. xi, 103 pp. large folio. 21 plates. 122 illus.
A comprehensive and valuable account of the work of the expedition sent under the auspices of the department to explore the site of the ancient city of Pachacamac in Perú, with ample documentation.
Unstead, J. F., and Taylor, E. G. R.: Philips’ comparative wall atlas of South America. Edited by J. F. Unstead, M.A., D.Sc., and E. G. R. Taylor, B.Sc. London, George Philip & son, ltd., the London geographical institute; New York, C. S. Hammond & co. 8 maps, 36 × 40 inches, approximately 150 miles to the inch.
It supplies a complete outline of the geography of South America, each map exhibiting a different aspect, as follows: relief and communications, political divisions, temperature, climate, November to April, climate, May to October, density of population, natural vegetation, economic products; excellent in every way; of rare educational value.
Uruguay: General descriptive data prepared in June, 1909. By the International bureau of American republics. Washington, D.C., Government printing office, 1909. 15 pp. 8ᵒ. pamph. 1 chart. 2 illus.
See comment on the similar pamphlet: “Argentine republic, the: General descriptive data,” etc.
Usher, Roland G.: Pan-Americanism. A forecast of the inevitable clash between the United States and Europe’s victor. By Roland G. Usher, Ph.D., professor of history, Washington university, St. Louis, author of “Pan-Germanism,” “The rise of the American people,” etc. New York, The Century co., 1915. xix, 416 [1] pp. 8ᵒ.
“The major part of the volume has been devoted to the present condition of the United States and Latin America, with especial attention to Pan-Americanism as a possible solution of American problems.”—Preface. A sensational attempt at prophecy; while the right to prophesy may not be denied to any, the present effort is interesting rather as an exhibition of the author’s peculiar mentality than as a sane and authenticated discussion of the subject; the author displays somewhat of the prestidigitator’s ability to produce a number of dissimilar things from what was apparently only one thing, as he passes with baffling agility from shadowy suggestion to elaborate hypothesis, and thence to the assumption of a completely demonstrated conclusion; seldom have more varied and glaring errors and inconsistencies been brought together in one work; at any rate those who may fear “the inevitable clash between the United States and Europe’s victor,” to quote the subtitle, need not be seriously disturbed by this work, for if there is anything that is not proven in it, it is the inevitableness of the supposititious “clash.”
Van Dyke, Harry Weston: Through South America. By Harry Weston Van Dyke. With introduction by John Barrett, director general of the Pan-American union. New York, Thomas Y. Crowell co., [1912]. xxiv, 446 pp. front. 12mo. 41 illus.
The title suggests that this is a book of travel; it is not, however, in the ordinary sense of the word, as there is no indication of the author’s route nor of the countries he visited; it is a concise description of the ten republics of South America, and of British, Dutch and French Guayana, with an outline of the history of the conquest and of the struggle for independence; it has little value as a history, owing to its superficial and fragmentary character, or as a book of travel, owing to its peculiar form; the frequent introduction of inaccurate Spanish and Portuguese is irritating; the bibliography at the back is too meager to be of much use.
Vega, Garcilasso de la: First part of the royal commentaries of the Yncas. By the Inca Garcilasso de la Vega. Translated and edited, with notes and an introduction by Clements R. Markham. (In 2 vols. 8ᵒ.) London, printed for the Hakluyt society. Vol. I, MDCCCLXIX (containing books I, II, III, IV). xi, 359 pp. Vol. II, MDCCCLXXI (containing books V, VI, VII, VIII, IX). v, 553 pp. 1 map.
Of unquestionable value for students who desire to go deeply into the study of early opinion regarding primitive Peruvian history; the translation is good.
Venezuela: General descriptive data prepared in June, 1909. By the International bureau of American republics. Washington, D.C., Government printing office, 1909. 16 pp. 8ᵒ. pamph. 5 illus.
See comment on the similar pamphlet: “Argentine republic, the: General descriptive data,” etc.
Vincent, Frank: Around and about South America. Twelve months of quest and query. New York, D. Appleton & co., 1890. xxiv, 473 pp. 8ᵒ. 2 maps. 4 plans. 54 illus.
A readable, popular story of travel: New York to Panamá, thence through Ecuador, Perú, Bolivia, Chile, the straits of Magallanes, skirting Falkland islands, Uruguay, Argentina, Paraguay, Brazil, the Guayanas, Venezuela and Colombia.
Waleffe, Maurice de: The fair land of Central America. By Maurice de Waleffe. Translated by Violette M. Montagu, author of “Sophie Dawes, queen of Chantilly,” and translator of “Gambetta’s life and letters.” Preface by Sir A. Conan Doyle. With twenty-four illustrations from photographs. London, John Long, ltd., MCMXI. 288 pp. 8ᵒ. front. 24 illus.
The author, an airy anti-American Frenchman, gifted with a trick of clever and mordant expression, while wholly oblivious to facts, devotes just one chapter (that upon Costa Rica) to Central America; the rest of the book deals with Trinidad, Jamaica, Cuba, Panamá and México; not often has so much nonsense been assembled in one publication; possibly some readers may be amused, but none will be convinced by this fantastic book.
Wallace, Alfred R.: A narrative of travels on the Amazon and rio Negro, with an account of the native tribes, and observations on the climate, geology and natural history of the Amazon valley. By Alfred R. Wallace, with a map and illustrations. London, Reeve & co., 1853. viii, 541 pp. front. 2 maps. 7 illus.
An interesting account of travel about the middle of the last century, with such observations as so alert and discriminating a writer would make, even in his youth, particularly regarding the weapons, utensils, etc., and the languages of the Indians.
Wallace, Dillon: Beyond the Mexican sierras. By Dillon Wallace, author of “The Long Labrador trail,” “Ungava Bob,” etc. With 75 illustrations from photographs by the author, and a map. Chicago, A. C. McClurg & co., 1910. xxix, 301 pp. 12mo. front. 1 map. 72 illus.
While the author is too much given to generalities, and is often mistaken about facts and words, the book is interesting as an account of travel, because it deals with localities regarding which little has been written.
Washburn, Charles A[mes]: The history of Paraguay, with notes of personal observations, and reminiscences of diplomacy under difficulties. By Charles A[mes] Washburn, commissioner and minister resident of the United States at Asuncion from 1861 to 1868. In two volumes. Boston, Lee & Shepard; New York, Lee, Shepard, & Dillingham, 1871. Vol. I. xii, 571 pp. 8ᵒ. front. 1 map. [6 illus.] Vol. II. xiv, 627 pp. 8ᵒ. front. [2 maps. 12 illus.]
Passing lightly over the part that is devoted to history, which is as satisfactory as could be expected under the circumstances, the main body of this work, which consists of personal observations and reminiscences, is an interesting human document that must be taken into account by students of the subject.
Watson, Robert Grant: Spanish and Portuguese South America during the colonial period. By Robert Grant Watson, editor of “Murray’s handbook of Greece.” (In 2 vols. 12mo.) London, Trübner & co., 1884. Vol. I. xvi, 308 pp. 3 maps. Vol. II. viii, 319 pp.
One of the earlier modern histories; not of great present value, in view of more thorough later publications; the author misspells many Spanish words, after the manner of his countrymen generally.
Wells, William V.: Explorations and adventures in Honduras, comprising sketches of travel in the gold regions of Olancho, and a review of the history and general resources of Central America. With original maps, and numerous illustrations. By William V. Wells. New York, Harper & bros., 1857. xxiv, 588 pp. 8ᵒ. front. 2 maps. 61 illus.
Of serious explorations there were none; this is but a book of travel, not lacking in interest, with occasional references to history, and to persons who were then making it.
Whitney, Caspar: The flowing road. Adventures on the great rivers of South America. By Caspar Whitney, author of “A Sporting pilgrimage,” “On snowshoes on the barren grounds,” “Hawaiian America,” “Jungle trails and jungle people,” etc. With maps and photographs by the author. Philadelphia and London, J. B. Lippincott & co., 1912. 319 pp. 8ᵒ. front. 53 illus.
A work by one who took keen interest in exploration and hunting, and in studying the forests and plants of the wilds; it contains fresh and accurate descriptions of conditions and incidents of travel, and of nature, with particular attention to parasitic growths.
[Willis, Bailey]: Northern Patagonia, character and resources. Volume I. A study of the elements of development in the region tributary to the national railway from port San Antonio to lago Nahuel Huapí and the extension to Valdivia, Chile; including the Andean lake district. (Under caption: “Ministry of public works, bureau of railways, Argentine republic.”) [By Bailey Willis]. Text and maps by the Comisión de estudios hidrológicos, Bailey Willis, director. [Buenos Aires], 1911-1914. [Scribner’s press, New York.] xix, 464 pp. 8ᵒ. 20 maps in text, 13 in separate case. 37 illus.
A lucid and wholly admirable account of the thorough and extensive investigations made by a trained scientist possessed of every facility for gathering, recording, illustrating and publishing interesting and useful information regarding the material potentialities of highly important, but hitherto only slightly known and charted regions; the maps, pictures, tables and make-up are of rare excellence; only occasional inconsistencies in the spelling of Spanish names are to be noted.
Wilson, Robert Anderson: A new history of the conquest of Mexico, in which Las Casas’ denunciations of the popular historians of that war are fully vindicated. By Robert Anderson Wilson, counsellor at law; author of “Mexico and its religion,” etc. Philadelphia, James Challen & son, etc., 1859. 539 pp. 8ᵒ. front. 19 maps. 20 illus.
An interesting and profusely documented restatement of the conquest by an aggressive and doughty iconoclast, whose vigor and bias are as perceptible as his conclusions are illogical and indefensible.
Winsor, Justin: Narrative and critical history of America. Edited by Justin Winsor, librarian of Harvard university, corresponding secretary Massachusetts historical society. (In 8 vols. 8ᵒ.) Boston and New York, Houghton Mifflin co., 1889. Vol. I. Aboriginal America. xxxvii, 470 pp. front. 54 maps. 54 illus. Vol. II. Spanish explorations and settlements in America from the fifteenth to the seventeenth century. ix, 640 pp. 113 maps. 135 illus. Vol. III. English explorations and settlements in North America, 1497-1689. xi, 578 pp. 57 maps. 50 illus. Vol. IV. French explorations and settlements in North America, and those of the Portuguese, Dutch and Swedes, 1500-1700. xxx, 516 pp. 140 maps. 35 illus. Vol. V. The English and French in North America, 1689-1763. vii, 649 pp. 106 maps. 93 illus. Vol. VI. The United States of North America: part 1. vii, 777 pp. 118 maps. 116 illus. Vol. VII. The United States of North America: part 2. vii, 610 pp. 32 maps. 129 illus. Vol. VIII. The later history of British, Spanish and Portuguese America. vii, 604 pp. 123 maps. 122 illus.
A vast storehouse of historical and bibliographical information; of great value to students, although all will recognize that the articles upon the different subjects and periods are naturally of unequal merit, owing to the diversity of authorship, which formed a part of the editor’s plan; while the illustrations, which are reproductions, are numerous, they are crude, and in many cases are too far removed from the first originals from which they were remotely derived.
Winter, Nevin O.: Argentine and her people of to-day. An account of the customs, characteristics, amusements, history and advancement of the Argentinians, and the development and resources of their country. By Nevin O. Winter, author of “Mexico and her people of to-day,” “Brazil and her people of to-day,” etc. Boston, L. C. Page & co., MDCCCCXI. xiv, 421 pp. 8ᵒ. front. 1 map. 49 illus.
Compare comment on “Brazil and her people of to-day” by this author.
Winter, Nevin O.: Brazil and her people of to-day. An account of the customs, characteristics, amusements, history and advancement of the Brazilians, and the development and resources of their country. By Nevin O. Winter, author of “Mexico and her people of to-day,” “Guatemala and her people of to-day,” etc. Illustrated from original and selected photographs by the author. Boston, L. C. Page & co., MDCCCCX. x, 388 pp. 12mo. front. 1 map. 48 illus.
See comment on “Guatemala and her people of to-day” by this author; a book of the same general character as that, with less excuse for being, inasmuch as there exists an excellent literature regarding Brazil.
Winter, Nevin O.: Guatemala and her people of to-day. Being an account of the land, its history and development; the people, their customs and characteristics; to which are added chapters on British Honduras and the republic of Honduras, with references to the other countries of Central America, Salvador, Nicaragua, and Costa Rica. By Nevin O. Winter, author of “Mexico and her people of to-day.” Boston, L. C. Page & co., MDCCCCIX. xii, 307 pp. 12mo. front. 1 map. 48 illus.
An insignificant mesquite is esteemed in a desert; in the same way this book, the product of a syndicated mind, superficial, inaccurate in matter and form, and none too proper in spirit, has a certain value, as a weak portrayal of things as they are, in want of really good books upon this subject.
Winter, Nevin O.: Mexico and her people of to-day. An account of the customs, characteristics, amusements, history and advancement of the Mexicans, and the development and resources of their country. By Nevin O. Winter. Illustrated from original photographs by the author and C. R. Birt. Boston, L. C. Page & co., [1907]. vi, 395 pp. 12mo. front. 2 maps. 47 illus.
In view of the existence of really good works on this subject, there is no reason why so slovenly a book as this should achieve publication.
Wolf, Teodoro: Geografía y geología del Ecuador. Publicada por órden del supremo gobierno de la república. Por Teodoro Wolf, Dr. Phil., antiguo professor de la escuela Politécnica de Quito y geólogo del estado. Con 12 láminas autotípicas, 47 illustraciones en el texto y 2 cartas. Leipzig, F. A. Brockhaus, 1892. 671 pp. small 4ᵒ. front. 2 maps. 59 illus.
A fundamentally important work that treats of the topography, geology and meteorology of continental Ecuador and the Galápagos archipelago, with a brief account of botany and zoölogy, enriched by an abundance of supplementary notes; the maps are good.
Wright, Mary Robinson: The new Brazil, its resources and attractions, historical, descriptive, and industrial. By Mary Robinson Wright, member of the Geographical society of America, etc., author of “Picturesque Mexico,” “The republic of Chile,” “Bolivia,” “The history of Peru,” etc. Philadelphia, George Barrie & sons; London and Paris, C. D. Cazenove & son, [1907]. 494 pp. 4ᵒ. front. 416 illus.
For comment, compare her work: “The old and new Peru.”
[Wright, Marie Robinson]: The republic of Chile. The growth, resources, and industrial conditions of a great nation. [By Marie Robinson Wright.] Philadelphia, George Barrie & sons; London and Paris, C. D. Cazenove & son, [1914]. 450 pp. 4ᵒ. front. 352 illus.
See comment upon her work on Perú.
Wright, Mary Robinson: The old and the new Peru. A story of the ancient inheritance and the modern growth and entrance of a great nation. By Mary Robinson Wright, member of the Geographical society of America, Geographical society of Brazil, Historical and Scientific institute of São Paulo, Geographical society of la Paz; author of “Picturesque Mexico,” “A new Brazil,” “The republic of Chile,” “Bolivia,” etc. Philadelphia, George Barrie & sons, 1908; London and Paris, C. D. Cazenove & son. 456 pp. 4ᵒ. front. 1 map. 346 illus.
A book in a florid style, which thoughtful people can not take seriously, although it contains fragments of information and records of impressions that are not without interest.
Zayas Enríquez, Rafael de: Porfirio Díaz. By Rafael de Zayas Enríquez. New York, D. Appleton & co., 1908. v[i], 281 [1] pp. 12mo. front. 3 illus.
Worthy of consideration as an appreciative but not too laudatory study of General Díaz, with unavailing suggestions as to what might have led his country into ways of peace and prosperity.
Zayas Enríquez, Rafael de: The case of Mexico and the policy of president Wilson. By Rafael de Zayas Enríquez, author of “The rise and fall of president Díaz.” Translated from the Spanish by Andre Tridon. New York, Albert and Charles Boni, 1914. 209 pp. 12mo.
Making due allowance for the literary faults of this book which are evident, and for the lack of good taste that characterizes it, and entirely ignoring the last chapter, which is an absurd misinterpretation of president Wilson’s attitude, and bearing in mind that it was a frank plea for the recognition of Huerta, it is an interesting statement of the case.
Zeballos, Estanislao S.: Argument for the Argentine republic upon the question with Brazil in regard to the territory of Missions, submitted to the arbitration of the president of the United States, in accordance with the treaty of September 7, 1889. Presented by Estanislao S. Zeballos, envoy extraordinary and minister plenipotentiary of the Argentine republic. Accompanied by documents and maps under the title of “Argentine evidence.” Washington, D.C., 1894. 4ᵒ. 20 maps.
An important collection of documents and maps.
Printed in the United States of America.