Description
Chronicle of Peru
Book Summary
The Chronicle of Peru, written by Pedro Cieza de León, is the first detailed account of the exploration and conquest of the territories that today make up Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia. This foundational work, commissioned by the peacemaker Pedro de la Gasca, offers a unique vision of the Andean world from the pre-Hispanic era to the first years of Spanish rule. Originally published in 1553, this edition by Linkgua Ediciones presents the first part of the chronicle, in which the author meticulously describes the lands, peoples, their customs, and traditions, becoming an essential source for understanding the history and culture of South America.
What is it about?
The Chronicle of Peru is a first-hand historical account that narrates the events of the Spanish conquest in the Andean region. In this first part, Cieza de León focuses on describing the geography, natural resources, and indigenous societies he encountered along his journey. The author details the customs, traditions, and forms of social organization of the native peoples, as well as their initial contacts with the conquistadors. The work was written at the request of Pedro de la Gasca, who sought to document the pacification process of Peru following the revolts led by Gonzalo Pizarro. Although Cieza de León was unable to complete the entire work before his death in 1554, this first part stands as a fundamental document for understanding the early history of the American continent.
Main Themes
- Exploration and conquest of Colombia, Ecuador, Peru, and Bolivia
- History of the Andean world in the pre-Hispanic era
- Customs and traditions of the indigenous peoples
- Pacification of Peru after the rebellions of Gonzalo Pizarro
- First European accounts of the geography and resources of South America
Who is it recommended for?
This book is intended for historians, students of American colonial history, researchers interested in the conquest of Peru and the Andean world, as well as readers passionate about accounts of exploration and 16th-century chronicles. It is also of great value to those seeking to understand the cultural and social roots of Andean countries from a documentary and testimonial perspective.
What this book provides
- A direct and detailed account of the conquest and exploration of South America in the 16th century
- Valuable ethnographic information on the customs and traditions of pre-Hispanic indigenous peoples
- Fundamental historical context to understand the pacification of Peru and the tensions among the conquistadors
- A documented vision of the geography and natural resources of the Andean region in the colonial era
- Access to a classic work of historical literature, considered the first chronicle of the Andean world
Technical Specifications
- Author: Cieza de León, Pedro
- Publisher: Linkgua Ediciones
- Language: Spanish
- Subject: CLASSIC TEXTS
- Collection: TBD COLLECTION
- Binding: Paperback
- Publication date: September 2008
- Number of pages: 314
- Weight: 350 g
Editorial Review
The Chronicle of Peru by Pedro Cieza de León is an indispensable work for any library of colonial history. Its value lies in being the first systematic account of the conquest and exploration of the Andean region, offering a perspective that combines direct observation with the political context of the time. Although this edition contains only the first part of the chronicle, its content is sufficient to appreciate the descriptive richness and documentary importance of this classic text. Recommended especially for researchers and history buffs of the Americas, this Linkgua Ediciones edition provides access to a testimony that remains an essential reference in colonial studies.

