The Portuguese: A Modern History

This was an excellent book, as an American born child of Portuguese immigrants I've always had a connection to Portugal. I've traveled many times and know of much of the beauty and customs that many haven't discovered. In an effort to learn more of my ethnic past I ordered this book. This is not your average history book, for me it was a page turner. The author covers centuries of information in clear, factual and interesting narrative style. Anyone looking to understand this great little country should definitely read this book. I'd admit, throughout it's chapters I felt a great amount of portuguese pride as you learn of Portugal in the age of discovery, leading the era of world exploration and it's beautiful cities. But I also felt plenty of anger and shame through Portugal's downfalls, slavery, dictatorship, etc. It truly was a roller coaster of emotions for me. I imagine, that those with Portuguese connections might have similar experiences. As the author, Barry Hatton explains, he could have left Portugal to work in great cities, such as New York or Brussels, etc. But his love of Lisbon and Portuguese life keeps him happy and fulfilled there. Knowing that allows you to respect his critical (and sometimes harsh) analyzes of Portugal. I highly recommend this book. I'm so thankful it was written!

The Portuguese - A Modern History This book is a very pleasant surprise. It provides a concise and detailed history of Portugal by covering major events of the country's historic evolution. The main arguments flow logically and are easy to follow. The book includes many different and varied topics and it is pleasant to read. It shows how the country has evolved by describing major events that have shaped the society and culture of the country. The book even covers culinary, musical and folkloric traditions. Last but not least, it is written with love for Portugal and its people: the author feels blessed to live in Portugal. For the author, Portugal constitutes a personal choice of life. The book is a very good introduction to the people and history of Portugal. I never felt bored reading it. I would highly recommend it to all those who would like to learn more about a country for which we know very little.

This book is OK. I thought it was a bit of a ramble and also too often dwelt on the decline of Portugal. I have never visited but I expect that the place is better than the author indicates.

Barry Hatton, a British citizen for long based in Lisbon, provides an acute portrait of the Portuguese today. The foreign but well trained eye, picks on Portuguese traits (their generosity, their taste for disorder, their fear of disappearance) that are seldom visible for nationals, but that indeed are striking for outsiders that have observed them from within for long. To understand such traits, Hatton goes on describing the country's history, since before nationality was attained in 1143. The light but accurate tone of the narrative takes the reader through the relevant historical episodes that shape the country's culture and personality. A book for the interested foreigner, but also for the Portuguese themselves who often have trouble recognizing their faults as well as their qualities.

Purchased this book for my upcoming visit to Portugal and thoroughly enjoyed reading. Informative, easy reading, and interesting. Highlights historical events, modern history, age of imperialism, and modern Portugal, it's people, and culture. The author adds a personal touch with several references to experiences providing the reader with a first-hand glimpse of life in Portugal.

The book is almost like new, as advertised.

Reading this in preparation for a trip to Portugal. British correspondent/author with Portuguese wife writes in easily comprehensible style, giving the traveler insight into the country's history and culture. Interesting anecdotes and a variety of chapter topics bring the reader up to the present day. I'm certain this book will be a good supplement to my travel experiences.

I didn't know much about Portuguese history, but this book really helped me to understand. Very well-written. Not too academic. Helps me understand some of the things I saw on prior travels to Portugal. Hoping to go back again soon. This time I'll be better-informed about the culture, architecture, and economy.

great read

Excellent book, very well documented ! Should be translated in many langages as it is really true.

I like Portuguese history, of which there is relatively little contemporary work in English, so this volume interested me. It arrived, partially mangled, with insufficient reason to return it - the alternative books offered didn’t even include a replacement - so I plugged through its mangled form. It is interesting, adds little knowledge of insight, and covers too much ground in too short a space. Too bad