Not only that, but if you go back just 60 to 70 years ago[1], there was a lot more parity between countries... For example Mexico rivaled European countries, but they chose different paths.
For a great part, "corruption" did a lot to ensure some countries would do poorly. For the effects of corruption, one need only look at Chile vs Brazil.
I think it's pretty clear economic policy in the last 70 to 80 years had the greatest impact on future growth progress and standing. Look at the standings in 1950. Looked pretty even. You have to remember in 1950 lots of Europe was way underdeveloped, aside from the UK, France and Germany. Less developed than some Latin American countries.
So, I don;t think there is a lot of correlation between history 100 to 200 years ago and their current situation. It's poor governing over the last 50 to 60 years or so.
[1]http://www.nationmaster.com/country-info/stats/Economy/GDP-p...
