This collection investigates the enduring impact of colonial legacies on contemporary Latin America. The book explores how historical institutions, including slavery, patrimonial absolutist states, and the imprint of the Enlightenment, continue to shape the region's political, economic, and cultural landscapes. Leading scholars examine the emergence of these legacies from colonial structures and how historians have interpreted them over time, arguing that these deep-seated encumbrances hinder the region's ability to meet liberal-capitalist expectations. The work frames persistence as a powerful lens for understanding historical processes.

This collection is likely to be regarded as a significant academic contribution, offering a nuanced perspective on the persistent influence of colonial history in Latin America. The scholarly essays provide in-depth analyses of key historical structures and their ongoing impact, appealing to specialists in Latin American history and post-colonial studies. The framing of 'persistence' as an analytical tool suggests a focus on long-term historical processes and their tangible effects on contemporary societies. The work invites critical engagement with how the past continues to shape the region's development and its challenges in achieving economic and political stability.