This book, which traces the evolution of the Costa Rican peasantry from colonial times to the present, focuses on the impact of agrarian capitalism, a key factor in the social and political change of the Costa Rican peasant society. Scholars and students in political science, sociology, economics, agricultural history, the history of politics of Central America, and all whose interests include the study of peasant movements and behavior will welcome it. It is, in a large sense, a story of peasant nonrebellion, providing a new interpretation of Costa Rica by redefining the image of the yeoman...