Peru and the United States, 1960–1975

“This book is an impeccably researched, skillfully constructed, and balanced account of U.S.-Peruvian relations during a particularly difficult period. It emphasizes the respective roles of the ambassadors, who are often overlooked or dismissed in traditional approaches to diplomatic history.” —Peter Klaren, George Washington University

“Walter’s book is the first close analysis of the diplomacy shaping the Peruvian government’s policies during the first years of the Alliance for Progress through the dynamic but erratic nationalist programs of the military government of General Juan Velasco Alvarado (1968–75). Most notably, Walter makes clear how misdirected U.S. policy undermined the democratic regime of President Belaúnde Terry (1963–68) and opened the door for more than a decade of military rule. An examination of how Washington dealt with the policies with the often pro-Soviet Velasco regime is one of the principal strengths of this important book.” —Daniel Masterson, United States Naval Academy

“Through this rigorously researched book, readers almost eavesdrop on pivotal conversations among U.S. and Peruvian presidents and diplomats between 1960 and 1975. Highlighting the efforts of U.S. and Peruvian ambassadors to retain positive bilateral relations during these tense years, Richard Walter adds a great deal to our knowledge, especially about the controversies over the fates of the International Petroleum Company and other U.S. companies in Peru.” —Cynthia McClintock, George Washington University

“Walter’s work is, in sum, the most meticulous examination to date of the contentious nature of the US–Peruvian relationship during these critical years, pending the full opening of the Peruvian archives. It benefits inestimably from the author’s sound analysis, his nuanced assessments and the limpidity of his prose as well as from the publisher’s high production standards.” —Philip Chrimes, International Affairs