Backlands The Canudos Campaign

Backlands: The Canudos Campaign by Euclides da Cunha is an important new translation of a fundamental work of Brazilian literature, published by Penguin Books in 2010. This edition, consisting of 513 pages, presents a vivid portrayal of Brazil’s War of Canudos, a significant civil conflict that took place in the 1890s between the government and the village of Canudos, settled by followers of the religious leader Antonio Conselheiro. The author, a former army lieutenant, civil engineer, and journalist, offers a nuanced exploration of this historical event and its implications for Brazilian society.

Readers will find that da Cunha’s narrative goes beyond a mere recounting of events, delving into the complexities surrounding the war and its impact on the nation. The book not only highlights the significance of the conflict but also reflects on broader themes within Brazilian society. This edition features a new translation by Elizabeth Lowe and includes an introduction by a prominent scholar of Latin America, enhancing the reader’s understanding of this pivotal moment in history.