Historia general de Chile

Historia general de Chile is a monumental 16-volume work by Chilean historian Diego Barros Arana, published between 1884 and 1902. This comprehensive history is considered a landmark in 19th-century Latin-American historiography.1

Barros Arana, originally trained in law, dedicated himself to history and literature. His research involved extensive exploration of Spanish archives, where he uncovered significant historical documents. The work covers the broad sweep of Chilean history, including its struggle for independence, which was influenced by events like the French Revolution and Napoleon's intervention in Spain. The initial steps toward autonomy began in 1810 with the formation of a governing junta in Santiago. The fight for independence involved key figures like Bernardo O'Higgins and José Miguel Carrera, culminating in decisive battles such as Chacabuco and Maipú in 1817 and 1818. Barros Arana's approach was characterized by meticulous investigation, though his writings also reflect Chilean nationalism.12