Porfirio Diaz (Profiles in Power Series)

Rating:
Summary: A very solid biography, with a specific agenda
Review: This was a very compelling, well written biography. However, the author, Paul Garner, has a very specific agenda which should be noted by the reader. Garner is a self-identified member of the "Neo-Porfiriato," which, essentially, puts him in a position to defend the history of Diaz. Although he valiantly attempts to provide a fair and balanced view of the infamous dictator, he inevitably falls into a defensive mode, trying to restore Diaz's good name.

Overall, it was a very informative book that I enjoyed reading. It is very off beat compared to most biographies of Diaz written over the last century. Most paint Diaz as an evil, heartless, ego maniac while Garner attempts to show a more thoughtful, loving president. I fully recommend reading this with the caveat that this biography is not in line with most biographies of Diaz. Enjoy!

--Joel W.