This brief history of Portugal attempts to not only illuminate the high points of global exploration and empire that most readers are familiar with but, in an examination of the social history and character of the nation, to discuss the factors that have led to its relative poverty and isolation in relation to modern Europe. Working both chronologically and thematically, the volume examines Portugal's medieval history, the age of exploration, twentieth century dictatorship, a democratic revolution as well as its food, music and defining national characteristics. The work includes several black and white photographs as well as recommendations for further reading. Hatton is a journalist who has worked as a foreign correspondent in Portugal for over twenty years. Annotation ©2011 Book News, Inc., Portland, OR (booknews.com)