Course Synopsis:

This course will cover the history and culture of Mexico from its pre-Columbian civilizations to the present. Topics include: Aztec and Mayan civilizations, Cortés and conquest, the Inquisition, rebel nuns, independence, the Mexican-American War and loss of Texas, the Alamo, the great Mexican Revolution, revolutionary artists like Frida Kahlo and Diego Rivera, indigenismo, student revolts and the 1968 Olympics, and Zapatista movement in Chiapas. This year we pay particular attention to the history of the US border to gain a deeper understanding of current news. Students have free choice of topic for their major research essay.

Typical Methods of Evaluation and Weights (may change):

In-class writing assignment #1    15%
In-class writing assignment #2    15%
Participation/ discussion        10%
Research Essay            30%
Final Exam                 30%

Texts and/or Resources Required (may change):

W. Beezley, Mexico in World History (textbook)
G. Joseph & T. Henderson, eds, The Mexico Reader (documents)
Sor Juana Inés de la Cruz, The Response/ La Respuesta
Kelly Hernández, Migra!  History of the US Border Patrol

Please note:  This is a preliminary web course description only.  The department reserves the right to change without notice any information in this description.  The final, binding course outline will be distributed in the first class of the semester.