In this seventh edition, John A. Booth, Christine J. Wade, and Thomas W. Walker update a classic in the field which invites students to explore the histories, economies, and politics of Costa Rica, Nicaragua, El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras. "This top-to-bottom update and revision make this edition of this classic work better than ever. Even if you have a prior edition, you will want this new one. Essential tool to the Central American region for newcomers and old timers alike." -Mitchell A. Seligson, Research Professor of Political Science, Vanderbilt University "Understanding Central America remains the best and most comprehensive treatment of this important sub-region of Latin America. The 7th edition is thoroughly revised with significant new material on each country, and does an excellent job capturing the impact of recent events on the state of democracy in Central America. Booth, Wade & Walker employ theoretically grounded and empirically rigorous analysis with clear prose that helps readers fully understand the history, politics and society of the sub-region. Understanding Central America is ideal for students and scholars needing a rigorous but yet accessible examination of Central America." -Orlando J. Pérez, Dean and Professor of Political Science, University of North Texas at Dallas