Coffee in Colombia, 1850–1970

This work examines Colombia's evolution as a coffee producer from 1850 to 1970, highlighting the crop's significant impact on the nation's economy, society, and political landscape.

Coffee in Colombia, 1850–1970 by Marco Palacios offers a comprehensive exploration of the profound impact that coffee has had on Colombia's economy, society, and politics over more than a century. Since the late nineteenth century, coffee has been a cornerstone of the Colombian economy, shaping the nation's development in significant ways. This book is the first of its kind in English, providing valuable insights for historians, economists, and sociologists interested in the intricate relationship between Colombia and its most famous export.

Palacios delves into the history of coffee production in Colombia, detailing the commercialization of the crop and its influence on the broader evolution of Colombian society. He illustrates how coffee cultivation has not only driven economic growth but has also affected social structures and political dynamics, even in regions far removed from coffee-growing areas. This connection highlights the crop's role as a catalyst for change in various aspects of Colombian life.

Additionally, the book examines the institutions established to manage coffee affairs and their significance within the Colombian state. By analyzing these entities, Palacios sheds light on the governance of the coffee industry and its implications for national policy. Through this detailed account, Coffee in Colombia, 1850–1970 serves as an essential resource for anyone seeking to understand the critical role of coffee in shaping Colombia's past and its ongoing legacy in the modern world.