Introduction to Latin America: Cultural Perspectives

Catalog description

This course focuses on the emergence of Latin America in modern times. How did the distinct nations and cultures of Latin America develop out of Spain and Portugal's former territories? The foundational, tumultuous period from the mid-eighteenth to the mid-twentieth century witnessed rebellions and revolts; independence and abolition; liberal reforms and revolutions; urbanization and the consolidation of national cultures. Students will give special consideration to the formation of political bodies in the nineteenth century and cultural identities in the twentieth century, all while considering the strategic means by which these processes effectively excluded or included large sectors of the population. Knowledge of this period in the region is crucial to understanding the world today. Taught in Spanish. Students may enroll in the related course SPANLANG 121 "Concurrent Writing Support" for one-on-one language learning. Emphasis is on style and diction, and on preparing, writing, and revising essays on related topics.