Mayans to Aztecs: Meso-American Indigenous History

Catalog description

This course explores the histories and cultures of Indigenous peoples of Mesoamerica, such as the Maya, Aztec, Zapotec, and Olmec civilizations. Spanning over 3,000 years, it examines developments from early settlements through the Spanish conquest, colonial and nation-state periods, and into the contemporary era. Centering Indigenous perspectives, the course highlights social, political, and religious life, intellectual achievements, ecological knowledge, and enduring contributions to the modern world. Students critically assess interpretations of the past, confront popular misconceptions, and explore the long-term impacts of colonialism, transculturation, and globalization on Indigenous communities. These histories are situated within the broader Mesoamerican cultural zone extending from contemporary Mexico to Nicaragua, using regional case studies to illuminate broader historical processes of global relevance. Specific regional or cultural emphases will vary by instructor.