cover image Chile-Mexico: DOS Transiciones Frente A Frente = Chile-Mexico

Chile-Mexico: DOS Transiciones Frente A Frente = Chile-Mexico

. Editorial Grijalbo (MX), $18 (464pp) ISBN 978-970-05-1267-9

This is a well-written discussion about the political and economic transitions currently underway in Mexico and Chile. Last year, Mexicans halted seven decades of the PRI's (Institutional Revolutionary Party) dominance. In 1988, Chileans voted to end the 15-year dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet. Thus, in a mere 12 years, the world witnessed two orderly political transitions in regions better known for bullets than for ballots. What happened, how these countries have changed, and what is in store for them are this book's leading themes. The volume's broad scope and its comparative format prove valuable. They give readers ample understanding of these two nation's historical, economic, and cultural developments. The essays are written by specialists in the field as well as by key political actors. Of particular interest are the ones on Mexico's new president, Vicente Fox, and on the growing and mutually beneficial commercial ties between Chile and Mexico. These discussions touch on issues such as immigration, United States-Mexico relations, and NAFTA. More importantly, they confirm that unhindered trade is partly responsible for the commercial boom experienced by both countries. By successfully tackling the issue of democratic transitions, this study fills a critical void in scholarly literature. Recommended for academic libraries and public libraries with a concentration on political sciences. Jos O. D az, Ohio State Univ. Lib., Columbus