In recent years, the countries of Latin America have moved out from under the shadow of the United States to become active players in the international system. What changed? Why? And why did it take so long for that change to happen? To answer those questions, Joseph S. Tulchin explores the evolving role of Latin American states in world affairs from the early days of independence to the present.

CONTENTS:

How Latin America Sees the World.From Empire to Independence.Consolidating Nation-States.The Rise of US Hegemony.Cold War in the Hemisphere.Post–Cold War Optimism.The End of Hegemony and the Evolution of Agency.Agency After Hegemony.