Lars Schoultz

Lars Schoultz is a distinguished scholar of Latin American studies and Professor Emeritus at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. His research and writing have focused extensively on U.S. foreign policy toward Latin America, with particular emphasis on relations between the United States and Cuba. Schoultz's most notable works include "That Infernal Little Cuban Republic: The United States and the Cuban Revolution" (2009) and "Beneath the United States: A History of U.S. Policy Toward Latin America" (1998). These books have become foundational texts in the study of U.S.-Latin American relations, examining the complex dynamics of power, politics, and cultural perceptions. His scholarship has challenged conventional narratives about U.S. foreign policy, particularly through his analysis of how American policymakers have historically viewed Latin American nations. His work "National Security and United States Policy toward Latin America" (1987) specifically examines the role of national security concerns in shaping U.S. policy decisions. Throughout his academic career, Schoultz has received multiple awards for his contributions to Latin American studies, including the Bolton-Johnson Prize from the Conference on Latin American History. His research continues to influence contemporary discussions about U.S.-Latin American relations and diplomatic history.

Readers praise Schoultz's detailed research and examination of historical documents in analyzing US-Latin American relations. Reviews highlight his ability to present complex diplomatic history through clear writing and extensive primary sources. What readers liked: - Clear explanations of complicated political relationships - Thorough documentation and citations - Balanced coverage of multiple perspectives - Accessible writing style for academic topics What readers disliked: - Dense academic prose in some sections - Length and detail can be overwhelming - Some readers found his critiques of US policy too harsh Ratings: Goodreads: - "Beneath the United States" - 4.3/5 (89 ratings) - "That Infernal Little Cuban Republic" - 4.2/5 (42 ratings) Amazon: - "Beneath the United States" - 4.5/5 (28 reviews) - "That Infernal Little Cuban Republic" - 4.4/5 (12 reviews) One reader noted: "Schoultz presents mountains of evidence without losing the narrative thread." Another commented: "Required reading for understanding US foreign policy, though the academic tone takes work to get through."

That Infernal Little Cuban Republic: The United States and the Cuban Revolution Examines U.S. policy toward Cuba from the 1959 revolution through the George W. Bush administration, drawing on declassified documents and interviews.

Beneath the United States: A History of U.S. Policy Toward Latin America Chronicles U.S. foreign policy and attitudes toward Latin America from the early 1800s to the 1990s, analyzing diplomatic records and policymaker statements.

National Security and United States Policy toward Latin America Analyzes how U.S. national security interests shaped policies toward Latin America during the Cold War period.

Human Rights and United States Policy Toward Latin America Documents the role of human rights considerations in U.S. foreign policy decisions regarding Latin America from the 1960s through the 1980s.

The Politics of United States Foreign Policy Toward Latin America Explores how domestic political factors within the United States influenced the formation of Latin American policy.

Legitimacy and Stability in Latin America: A Study of Chilean Political Culture Examines Chilean political culture and institutions through analysis of survey data and historical records.

Greg Grandin studies U.S. relations with Latin America, focusing on interventionism and economic imperialism. His work examines how U.S. foreign policy shaped political developments across Central and South America during the 20th century.

William LeoGrande specializes in U.S.-Cuba relations and American foreign policy toward Latin America during the Cold War. His research includes extensive analysis of diplomatic archives and declassified government documents.

Peter H. Smith examines the political development of Latin America and U.S. influence in the region since independence. His work connects historical patterns to contemporary political dynamics in Latin American nations.

Mark T. Gilderhus focuses on Pan-American relations and U.S. diplomatic history in Latin America. His research covers the evolution of U.S. foreign policy from the Monroe Doctrine through the Cold War period.

Walter LaFeber analyzes the history of U.S.-Latin American relations through the lens of economic and political power dynamics. His work examines how U.S. business interests influenced foreign policy decisions in the Western Hemisphere.