Coffee Empire: The Great Plantation in Brazil 1850 to 1890 by Ana Luiza Martins

A sweeping history of coffee cultivation in Brazil, from its humble beginnings to its status as a global powerhouse

In "Coffee Empire: The Great Plantation in Brazil 1850 to 1890," Ana Luiza Martins takes readers on a captivating journey through the world of coffee cultivation in Brazil, shedding light on the social, economic, and environmental transformations that shaped the country's rise to prominence as a coffee powerhouse.

A labor of love and meticulous research

Martins' book is a testament to her passion for history and her dedication to uncovering the untold stories of Brazil's coffee industry. Drawing from a wealth of primary sources, including plantation records, government documents, and personal correspondence, she paints a vivid picture of the lives of coffee planters, laborers, and merchants, offering a nuanced understanding of the complex dynamics that drove the coffee economy.

A tale of triumph and tragedy

"Coffee Empire" is a story of triumph and tragedy, as Martins delves into the challenges and triumphs faced by the coffee industry during the second half of the 19th century. She explores the impact of technological advancements, such as the introduction of steam-powered machinery, on coffee production and the rise of large-scale plantations. At the same time, she exposes the harsh realities of plantation life, including the exploitation of enslaved labor and the devastating effects of disease and economic crises.

A must-read for anyone interested in history, economics, or coffee

"Coffee Empire" is a must-read for anyone interested in history, economics, or coffee. Martins' engaging narrative style and meticulous research make this book an invaluable resource for scholars, students, and general readers alike. Whether you're a coffee aficionado or simply curious about the history of one of the world's most popular commodities, "Coffee Empire" is a book that will captivate and inform you from beginning to end.

Key takeaways from "Coffee Empire":

• Brazil's rise to prominence as a coffee powerhouse was driven by a combination of factors, including favorable climate, abundant land, and access to cheap labor.
• The coffee industry had a profound impact on Brazilian society, transforming the country's economy, politics, and culture.
• The coffee industry was not without its challenges, including labor shortages, disease outbreaks, and economic crises.
• Despite these challenges, the coffee industry played a crucial role in shaping Brazil's development and continues to be a vital part of the country's economy today.

Praise for "Coffee Empire":

"A magisterial work of scholarship that sheds new light on the history of coffee cultivation in Brazil. Martins' book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of Brazil, the global coffee trade, or the intersection of economics, politics, and culture."

• Stanley J. Stein, Professor Emeritus of History, Princeton University

"A fascinating and well-written account of the rise of the coffee industry in Brazil. Martins' book is a valuable contribution to the historiography of Brazil and Latin America, and it will be of interest to scholars, students, and general readers alike."

• Barbara Weinstein, Professor of History, New York University

"Coffee Empire is a tour de force. Martins has produced a comprehensive and meticulously researched history of the coffee industry in Brazil that is both informative and engaging. This book is a must-read for anyone interested in the history of Brazil, the global coffee trade, or the intersection of economics, politics, and culture."

• Steven Topik, Professor of History, University of California, Irvine