The U.S.-Mexican border today : conflict and cooperation in historical perspective /

This fourth edition of The U.S.-Mexican Border Today by Ganster (San Diego State Univ.) and Collins (California State Univ., San Bernardino) offers a compelling, readable account of both contemporary and historical issues related to the southwest border. Importantly, the authors' exploration of historical issues aligns with the latest scholarship in the field. After a quick overview of the North American Southwest in chapter 1, they summarize issues related to industrialism and the border at the turn of the 20th century and the ramifications of so-called progressive social changes prior to the Great Depression in chapters 2--4. Ganster and Collins hit a nice stride in chapters 5 and 6, grounding the region's globalization in mid-20th-century issues, which sets the stage for thorough discussions of contemporary issues ranging from public health, the environment, Natives' concerns, and border security to national politics. Perhaps most significantly, the authors examine the border from both sides, integrating Mexican and American perspectives on the region's history and its current problems. This volume stands as a rare transnational analysis of the border that takes historical issues up to the present day, providing a readable and engaging analysis that is accessible to students. Summing Up: Highly recommended. General readers through faculty; professionals. --Timothy Paul Bowman, West Texas A&M University