What are Mercedes Jackson's opinions on the impact of colonial history in Peru?

I look at Peru’s colonial history as something that still shows up in how people think, talk, and move today—and that’s exactly what shook me on this trip.

In Cusco and around Machu Picchu, I saw how colonialism didn’t just take land; it rewired minds. When a local told me he was grateful for the Spanish takeover, I was honestly stunned. For me, that felt like a clear example of how deep colonial brainwashing can run—when people start to justify or soften what was essentially violence, displacement, and forced assimilation.

I also think it is wild how stories get told. An “American explorer” gets credit for “discovering” Machu Picchu when local families were already living there. That feels like a Christopher Columbus remix: outsiders getting glory for places that were never lost to the people who actually lived there.

So my view is:

• The history is messy and painful, and it still shapes identity, language, and power.
• Tourism often glosses over that, focusing on “wow” moments instead of honest context.
• You can enjoy the country and its beauty, but I think it is important to keep your eyes open to how colonialism still echoes in attitudes, gratitude toward colonizers, and whose stories get centered.

When you travel, do you usually dig into the history, or are you more about the vibes and experiences?