"The general perception of modern Latin American political institutions emphasizes a continuing and random process of disorder and crisis, continually out of step with other regions in their progress toward democracy and prosperity. In History of Political Parties in Twentieth-Century Latin America, Torcuato S. Di Tella demonstrates that this common view lacks context and comparative nuance, and is deeply misleading.

Looking behind the scenes of modern Latin American history, he discerns its broad patterns through close analysis of actual events and comparative sociological perspectives that explain the apparent chaos of the past and point toward the more democratic polity now developing."

"History of Political Parties in Twentieth-Century Latin America is rich in historical description, but also in its broad review of social structures and of the strengths and weaknesses of political institutions. It is an important volume for Latin America area specialists and historians, political scientists, and sociologists."--Jacket.