This topical volume seeks to analyze the intimate but under-studied relationship between the construction of national identity in Latin America, and the violent struggle for political power that has defined Latin American history since independence. The result is an original, fascinating contribution to an increasingly important field of study.

'This intriguing book reminds us of the continuing power of national imaginaries to generate and orchestrate violence, and of how much violence is an integral part of not only authoritarian, but also liberal, regimes. Fowler and Lambert have put together an impressive interdisciplinary collection that combines illuminating theoretical overviews with wide-ranging and engaging case studies. An important book for all students of nationalism and violence.' - Peter Wade, Professor of Social Anthropology, University of Manchester

'Fowler and Lambert have put together a fascinating collection of essays on one of the most contested topics in the current debate about Latin America: the role of political violence in the construction of national identity. This collaborative text by experts on Latin America offers rich insights into the historical roots of nationalism in the region, as well as a theoretical framework for assessing the most recent political developments from Mexico to Argentina.' - Abdiel Oñate, Professor of History, Director of the Latin American Area Studies Program, San Francisco State University

'Each selection in this collection is original and presents associations between political violence and national identities in modern Latin America. The internal coherence and theoretical cogency of the volume reveals an innovative approach for organizing Latin American history in general, which will stimulate both classroom discussion and specialistdebate. You could construct a course around this book.' - Timothy E. Anna, Distinguished Professor of History, University of Manitoba