In the seven years since the first edition was published, Peru has undergone significant changes that have had national and international consequences. A Brief History of Peru, Second Edition maintains the insightful narrative of the first edition and includes a history of the country—from its ancient peoples and the Inca Empire through the most recent political, social, and economic developments. It expands on the second half of Alejandro Toledo's presidency, including his handling of domestic terrorism from the guerrilla organization Shining Path; the unveiling of a plan to construct a road that would connect Brazil, Bolivia, and Peru by roughly 2020; and the creation of a National Commission of Culture planned to bring a group of intellectuals and artists together to elaborate a governmental plan for cultural policies.
This new edition explores the 2006 re-election of former president Alan García, who returned to the presidential palace at the Plaza de Armas with promises to improve Peruvians' living conditions and balance economic stability with increased social spending. He has since worked to improve his country's status and strengthen foreign relationships, particularly with Chile and Brazil.