Basil Mahon

Basil Mahon is an acclaimed author and historian best known for his historical fiction works such as The Last Aztec, Deking Comes Home and The Falcon's Claw. He has published numerous books over the course of his long and illustrious career, with a focus primarily on the history, cultures and politics of Mexico and South America. Mahon is a respected voice in the literary world, often drawing upon his vast array of knowledge when conveying Latin America’s complex and rich relationships with other countries throughout history.

Born in the late 1940s in London, Mahon’s fascination with the Latin American countries began to show itself at a young age. Upon completion of his education at the University of Oxford, Mahon moved to Mexico and began to explore what he quickly began to feel was his true home. After spending several years researching and travelling, Mahon began to document his discoveries in the form of books, including his first novel, The Last Aztec. This novel quickly gained popularity, and Mahon gained a reputation as a master storyteller who could pull back the curtain on Latin American culture in a way most had never seen before.

Mahon’s work focuses on the forgotten history of colonialism and power struggles, often from the perspective of the indigenous peoples and their struggles for justice. His ability to convey the complexities and nuances of the region with intelligence and insight has made his work critically acclaimed. He has been awarded numerous awards for his work in literature, including a Guggenheim Fellowship, a Christopher Award and the Ohio Prize for Literature.

Despite his success in writing, Mahon also respects the oral tradition of canto relando, an emerging form of communication in El Salvador in the late 1940s. Mahon’s work often blends these stories with music and dance, allowing them to be better explored and understood. His books are an enlightening blend of fact and fiction, allowing readers to form a new appreciation of Latin American culture and the people who live there.

In addition to writing, Mahon has also established his place as a leader in the Latin American literary scene. He is a member of the editorial board of the trade journal Latin American Literature and Art, which publishes book reviews and other reports about Latin American authors and their works. He also has published articles in Spanish-language journals and magazines, and served as a consultant for programs and activities related to Latin American art and literature.

Over the course of his work, Basil Mahon has left his mark on the international community as a leader in Latin American literature and culture. His works have inspired readers around the world, and have helped many to understand the complexities and history of Latin American peoples and countries in a way that has proven invaluable. Through his books and articles, many have been able to experience the rich and fascinating cultures of Latin America as nothing else could.