The Banana Men: American Mercenaries and Entrepreneurs in Central America, 1880-1930
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Book Overview
Ambitious entrepreneurs, isthmian politicians, and mercenaries who dramatically altered Central America's political culture, economies, and even its traditional social values populate this lively story of a generation of North and Central Americans and their roles in the transformation of Central America from the late nineteenth century until the onset of the Depression. The Banana Men is a study of modernization, its benefits, and its often frightful costs.
Format:Paperback
Language:English
ISBN:0813108365
ISBN13:9780813108360
Release Date:December 1995
Publisher:University Press of Kentucky
Length:240 Pages
Weight:0.70 lbs.
Dimensions:0.6" x 5.6" x 8.5"
Grade Range:Postsecondary and higher
Customer Reviews
4 ratings
Interesting and well researched account of revolution
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 25 years ago
I found this to be an excellent rendition of some rather brutal and violent events. The cast of characters could fill a dozen novels, but they were all real people. The corruption, the revolutions, the mercenaries, the battles the the battles are all detailed in a readable style.
A Great Book
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 26 years ago
This is a wonderful read. Vivid accounts of mercenaries and capitalists and their deeds in the early part of the century. The research put into this book is impressive. They provide little known facts about the individuals central to the travesty brought by American involvement. The lives of Lee Christmas, Samuel Zemurray and others from the period are fascinating. Their stories deserved to be told and this book has done a great job of doing so.
Oh, My Kingdom for a Time Machine
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 26 years ago
A wonderful book about a fascinating time in history. Lee Christmas, Sam Zemurray and all the other characters from the era are rescued from undeserved obscurity. Information not found elsewhere made this a worthwhile read. Having lived in La Ceiba, Honduras and Guatemala, this book brought back the smells and taste of tropical America. For anybody interested in the virtually unknown escapades of soldiers of fortune and crazy capitalists, this is the book for you. If anyone knows of similar books that can be purchased, please e-mail me. I have some, but the early publication dates and lack of market for republications makes it difficult to find classics by Beals, Batson and Cunningham among others.
adventure history placed in a broad world analysis
Published by Thriftbooks.com User , 26 years ago
I am one of the co-authors, but I would advise readers who are attracted by the adventurous title to skip Chapter One and begin with Chapter Two and so on to the end of the book and then return and read Chapter One. If the reader is interested in analysis and interpretation, he/she can begin with Chapter One.
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