So, there’s this new book out by Greg Grandin called “America, América: A New History of the New World,” and let me tell you, it’s got some serious depth. Like, we’re not just talking your run-of-the-mill history lesson here. Grandin dives deep into the whole America vs. América thing, which is pretty interesting if you ask me.
The book challenges the idea that “America” is just another way to say the United States. Grandin argues that this limited understanding has actually hindered our knowledge of how the modern world came to be. He emphasizes that “America, América” is about more than just the Western Hemisphere—it’s a history of the entire modern world.
One of the key points Grandin makes is that without understanding the Americas in their entirety, we can’t really grasp the liberal or rules-based global order we live in today. He delves into the long history of ideological and ethical struggles in the New World, shedding light on how Latin America has acted as a constant critic of the United States. This “magpie rivalry,” as he calls it, has played a crucial role in shaping the economics, politics, and moralities of the modern world.
The book takes us on a whirlwind tour of history, starting with the Spanish conquest in the 16th century and moving through the Anglo conquest of North America. Grandin contrasts the brutality of Spain’s treatment of Native populations with the lack of moral debate surrounding English colonialism. He highlights how Latin American republics, after breaking away from Spanish rule, learned to coexist and even developed a unique body of international law that influenced the founding of organizations like the League of Nations and the United Nations.
Overall, “America, América” is a game-changer when it comes to understanding the world we live in. Grandin’s writing style is vibrant and engaging, drawing readers in with his unique perspective on history. If you’re looking for a book that will challenge your thinking and broaden your understanding of the modern world, this is the one to read. Trust me, you won’t regret it.
