is a revealing look at South America's second largest nation, providing an interdisciplinary introduction to the country's economy, history, geography, politics, government, society, and culture. spans over five centuries of the nation's evolution—from the arrival of the conquistadors through the years of revolution and independence, from the Peron era and the often difficult post-Peron transitioning, to the surprising success of current president Néstor Kirchner. The book features both narrative chapters on the country's history and culture, and a reference section with alphabetically organized entries on important people, places, events, and more. There is no better place to begin an investigation of Argentine society and culture, its rich artistic traditions and volatile politics, and the dramatic history that shaped the nation as it is today.