Summary of Anabel Hernandez's Narcoland

The world of Mexican drug cartels has become notorious for its extreme violence and wealth, but also its secrecy. Anabel Hernandez’s Narcoland (2014) dives into this world and uncovers its history, its day-to-day operations, and the men behind it. Today's cartels began as small local gangs selling narcotics. As they grew and banded together, they began bribing authorities for protection. Soon, many Mexican officials were participating in the industry rather than trying to stop it. Drug lords gained incredible amounts of power and wealth, but rivals were always trying to eliminate them.

Hernandez sees no end to this cycle of violence and corruption until kids in poverty receive opportunities outside of drug trafficking. Otherwise, Mexico will continue being known as "Narcoland."