A History of Mining in Latin America: From the Colonial Era to the Present

Mining in Latin America, from the colonial era to the present, has played a pivotal role in shaping global capitalism and regional economies. The discovery of silver in the New World enriched Spain and fueled international trade, while modern mining provided essential industrial minerals. However, this economic boom often came at a cost, leaving behind environmental damage and widespread health issues among miners. Kendall W. Brown's study, focusing on Potosí and Bolivia, reveals that while mining launched boomtowns and regional trade networks, it also perpetuated abusive labor practices such as the mita system and debt peonage. The research combines historical narrative with archival data to highlight the complex legacy of mining, which includes both economic development and social exploitation. Brown's findings underscore the dual nature of mining—its potential for prosperity versus its enduring consequences on communities and environments.

Gonzales, M. J. (2013). A History of Mining in Latin America: From the Colonial Era to the Present. Hispanic American Historical Review, 93(2), 277–278. https://doi.org/10.1215/00182168-2077243