"Few works in the history of U.S. foreign relations offers as much breadth and depth as this. Trade and Gunboats should be a model for those who aspire to write diplomatic history." —The Annals "Topik has written a fine case study. It should be the model for future works." —Journal of American History "A superb piece of work. For some years historians, especially in the diplomatic field, have criticized U.S.-oriented writing and have pleaded for work that examines crises from more than the U.S. side. Topik has provided a model study in this regard. . . . Stunning use of archival sources from several countries."—Walter LaFeber, Cornell University "It is a considerable achievement to link so clearly the politics of two large and growing states in their effects on diplomacy; the author deserves credit for both his methodology and its product. Notable for its new information and fresh viewpoint."—Diplomatic History "Topik has produced an outstanding study of trade rivalry between the U.S. and Brazil at the end of the nineteenth century. Trade and Gunboats adds admirably to what is known about the history of both countries. . . . It poses menaingful questions and answers them lucidly. This superbly crafted and timely work raises diplomatic history to a higher level."—Choice "An admirable monograph. . . . This is the first scholarly study of U.S.-Lating American commerce and trade negotiation in the nineteenth century. . . . Topik's crisp prose, moving effortlessly between economic and political history, createds numerous pungent pen portraits."—American Historical Review