In a book that is friendly to the Spanish colonization of New Mexico, Ray John de Arag̤n outlines both the history of Iberian culture and the contributions made upon arrival in the new world. He doesn't shy away from describing wars among the Native Americans and the human sacrifices that took place among the Aztecs under the direction of Montezuma. He also compares Spanish cultural integration to the more harsh practices of the English. The book has a clear underlying viewpoint and is full of interesting information along with well chosen photographs. De Arag̤n is a well-regarded Latino writer who has also taught Spanish history at Luna Community College and the Valencia branch of the University of New Mexico. No index is provided. Annotation 2013 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)
