If you’re fascinated by Peru History, you’re in for a treat! The rich historical narrative of Peru spans thousands of years, from the grandeur of the Inca Empire to the colonial conquests and modern-day cultural revolutions. This list of the top 10 books on Peru History will guide you through some of the most captivating accounts ever written about this South American treasure. Whether you’re a seasoned history buff or new to the topic, these books will take you deep into the country’s past.
Author: Marco Jiménez
Marco Jiménez is a historian and writer specializing in Latin American cultures. He has spent decades studying Peru’s historical trajectory, focusing on its impact on contemporary politics and culture. His works are celebrated for making history both informative and engaging for all readers.
10. Learn Spanish Fast for Adult Beginners: 5-in-1 Workbook
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.4 out of 5 stars (144 ratings)
This workbook is ideal for anyone diving into Peru History, as it provides a basic understanding of Spanish, the language you’ll encounter in most historical texts about the region.
Why We Choose It
The book makes learning Spanish quick and easy, which is essential for readers who want to explore original historical documents or communicate with locals.
Fun Fact
Spanish became the dominant language in Peru after the Spanish conquest of the Inca Empire in the 16th century.
Category: Peru History
Master Spanish for history here
9. Turn Right at Machu Picchu: Rediscovering the Lost City One Step at a Time
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.4 out of 5 stars (2,717 ratings)
This adventurous account by Mark Adams traces his journey through Peru, focusing on the discovery of Machu Picchu, one of the world’s most fascinating historical sites.
Why We Choose It
It’s an accessible introduction to the Inca Empire and the explorer Hiram Bingham, who made Machu Picchu famous in 1911.
Fun Fact
Machu Picchu was not known to the Spanish colonizers, allowing it to remain intact for centuries.
Category: Peru History
8. Bolívar: American Liberator
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6 out of 5 stars (1,073 ratings)
Marie Arana’s biography of Simón Bolívar delves into the military and political campaigns that shaped the future of Peru and much of Latin America.
Why We Choose It
Bolívar’s influence on Peru History is monumental, making this biography a must-read for understanding the country’s struggle for independence.
Fun Fact
In 1824, Bolívar helped win Peru’s independence from Spain, securing his place in history as a Latin American hero.
Category: Peru History
7. Mother of God: An Extraordinary Journey into the Uncharted Tributaries of the Western Amazon
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6 out of 5 stars (1,248 ratings)
Paul Rosolie’s journey into the Amazon Rainforest is an exhilarating tale that gives insight into the geography and culture of Peru.
Why We Choose It
Rosolie’s account helps us understand how Peru’s natural environment has shaped its historical and cultural development.
Fun Fact
The Amazon Rainforest represents over half of the world’s remaining rainforests and a significant part of Peru’s ecosystem.
Category: Peru History
Embark on an Amazon adventure here
6. Lost City of the Incas (Phoenix Press)
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.3 out of 5 stars (451 ratings)
This classic work by Hiram Bingham provides an in-depth look at the discovery of Machu Picchu, the heart of Inca civilization.
Why We Choose It
Bingham’s firsthand account is essential for anyone looking to understand Peru History through the lens of archaeological discovery.
Fun Fact
Machu Picchu is often referred to as the “Lost City of the Incas” due to its remote location.
Category: Peru History
5. Inca Empire: A History from Beginning to End
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.3 out of 5 stars (403 ratings)
This short yet detailed book offers an easy-to-read history of the Inca Empire, making it ideal for beginners.
Why We Choose It
This concise history is perfect for anyone who wants a quick yet thorough overview of Inca civilization.
Fun Fact
The Inca Empire was the largest empire in pre-Columbian America, covering much of Peru and neighboring regions.
Category: Peru History
4. Forgotten Continent: A History of the New Latin America
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5 out of 5 stars (243 ratings)
Michael Reid’s book provides an overview of Latin America, with a specific focus on Peru’s historical and political evolution.
Why We Choose It
Reid’s thorough analysis helps readers understand Peru’s role within the broader context of Latin American history.
Fun Fact
Latin America, including Peru, has one of the most culturally diverse populations in the world.
Category: Peru History
Learn more about the continent here
3. The Last Days of the Incas
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.6 out of 5 stars (1,415 ratings)
Kim MacQuarrie’s detailed account explores the fall of the Inca Empire and the subsequent Spanish conquest.
Why We Choose It
This book combines thorough research with compelling storytelling, offering a complete picture of Peru History during the conquest.
Fun Fact
The Spanish conquest of the Inca was one of the most significant events in Peru’s history, forever altering its trajectory.
Category: Peru History
Relive the Inca Empire’s final days here
2. One Bright Shining Path: Faith in the Midst of Terrorism
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ 5.0 out of 5 stars (8 ratings)
This compelling account by W. Terry Whalin looks at the terrorist group Shining Path in Peru and the lives it affected.
Why We Choose It
It’s an emotional and eye-opening look at modern Peruvian history and the struggles of its people.
Fun Fact
The Shining Path was a Maoist guerrilla insurgent group that wreaked havoc in Peru during the 1980s and 1990s.
Category: Peru History
Read about Peru’s dark chapter here
1. The History of Latin America: Collision of Cultures (Palgrave Essential Histories Series)
⭐⭐⭐⭐ 4.5 out of 5 stars (203 ratings)
This comprehensive history by Marshall C. Eakin explores the collision of cultures in Latin America, with significant focus on Peru.
Why We Choose It
It provides an academic yet accessible exploration of Peru History within the context of Latin America’s broader historical narrative.
Fun Fact
The Spanish colonization led to a blending of indigenous cultures and European customs, which is still evident in Peru today.
Category: Peru History
Explore Peru’s place in Latin America here