Imperial Skirmishes: War and Gunboat Diplomacy in Latin America

Since the early 19th century, South America has witnessed a series of conflicts, some short & small-scale, others long-lasting & extensive. Battles have been fought over serious issues -- border disputes, trading disagreements & oil wealth -- but also over such seemingly trivial matters as manure & the result of a soccer match. The heyday of South American war-mongering was the 19th century, the period reconstructed here. Considers how Britain treated the continent as part of its empire with a policy of gunboat diplomacy. Analyzes how distant wars were viewed in Europe & how they affected the people who actually fought them. Captures the imperial ambitions, belligerence & incompetence of Victorian generals & profiteers. Illustrations.