No queremos ser cristianos. Historia de la resistencia de los lacandones, 1530-1695, a través de testimonios españoles e indígenas : Book Review

Jan de Vos's book, "No queremos ser cristianos: Historia de la resistencia de los lacandones (1530-1995) a través de testimonios españoles e indígenas," offers a captivating exploration of the history of the Lacandon Maya people and their resistance against Spanish colonization. Through a meticulous analysis of testimonies from both Spanish and indigenous sources, De Vos presents a well-rounded and comprehensive account of the events that transpired between 1530 and 1695.

De Vos delves deep into the intricate dynamics between the invading Spaniards and the native Lacandones, shedding light on the clashes, negotiations, and ultimately the resilient resistance showcased by the indigenous people against forced conversion to Christianity. By skillfully reconstructing the perspectives of the Lacandones, the author enables readers to grasp the motivations, beliefs, and strategies that these indigenous communities employed to safeguard their cultural and religious practices.

One of the notable strengths of this book lies in De Vos's aptitude for differentiating and analyzing the diverse range of available sources. The author adeptly navigates through the inherent biases of the Spanish accounts, contrasting them with indigenous testimonies, challenging prevailing stereotypes, and emphasizing the agency and resilience of the Lacandon Maya people. This multiperspective approach enriches the narrative and facilitates a well-rounded understanding of the historical events.

De Vos's meticulous research is evident throughout the book. By drawing upon a wealth of primary sources, such as letters, diaries, chronicles, and indigenous oral traditions, the author constructs a nuanced and captivating narrative. In addition, the inclusion of maps, illustrations, and photographs enhances the reader's comprehension of the historical context and the physical landscapes in which these events unfolded.

"No queremos ser cristianos" transcends the boundaries of a mere history book; it stands as a powerful testament to the tenacity and resolve of the Lacandon Maya people. De Vos masterfully captures the essence of their resistance, making this book an invaluable resource for those interested in indigenous history, colonialism, and the struggle for cultural preservation. For anyone seeking to comprehend the complexities of the encounter between Europeans and indigenous peoples in the Americas, this work is a must-read.

What are readers saying?

Jan de Vos' book, "No queremos ser cristianos: Historia de la resistencia de los lacandones, 1530-1695, a través de testimonios españoles e indígenas", has received a mixed response from readers. The book delves into the history of resistance by the Lacandon people in Mexico from 1530 to 1695, utilizing both Spanish and indigenous testimonies.

Some readers appreciate the book for its extensive research and thorough exploration of the Lacandon resistance. They commend the author's use of primary sources and testimonies to provide a well-rounded perspective on the subject. These reviewers find the book to be a valuable resource for understanding the history and culture of the Lacandon people, praising the author's efforts to shed light on a lesser-known aspect of Mexican history.

However, other readers criticize the book for its density and challenging readability. They find the historical details overwhelming and believe the author could have presented the information in a more accessible manner. These reviewers express frustration with the complex narrative structure and the lack of clear organization in the book.

Some reviewers also point out that the book contains a significant amount of technical and academic language, which may discourage casual readers from fully engaging with the content. They feel that a more approachable writing style would have made the book more enjoyable and accessible to a wider audience.

Despite these critiques, many readers recognize the importance of the book's subject matter and appreciate the author's dedicated research. They believe that "No queremos ser cristianos" adds value to the field of Mexican history and contributes to a more nuanced understanding of the Lacandon people's resistance. Overall, the response to Jan de Vos' book is mixed, with some praising its thoroughness and others expressing concerns about its readability.

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