What is this book about?

This work focuses specifically on Peru's journey during the first half of the 20th century. It explores key themes such as the decline of traditional social structures (like the Andean peasant communities), the rise of a market economy driven by resource exports (like coffee and minerals), the impact of foreign investment and political instability, the emergence of nationalism, and the often contradictory nature of modernization. The book essentially charts the complex interplay between progress and continuity, showing how the 'new' Peru was built upon and sometimes at the expense of the 'old' Peru, analyzing both the achievements and the social costs of this transformation.