History and Culture of Latin America History 2240

Hispanic people all ages.jpg. modified http://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/File:Hispanic_people_all_ages.jpg 15 May, 2013.

Latin America is a culturally diverse, rich and dynamic region of the world. This course begins by exploring the varied and fascinating pre-Columbian societies and empires, including the mighty and stunningly advanced Mayan, Inca and Aztec civilizations. It will focus on the epic and tragic clash of two worlds in the Spanish Conquest and the resultant creation of a new Latin American society and culture. We examine the struggles and triumphs of independence, attempts by new Latin American nations to establish political and economic stability, unity and democracy, and their difficult navigation between the benefits of foreign influence and investment with the traps of neo-colonialism. The course culminates with the 20th century Latin America; including dynamic revolutions in Mexico, Cuba and elsewhere, struggles with ideologies like Communism and liberation theology, contending with the growing power and influence of the United States and the regions internal development and emergence as one of the most vibrant and dynamic in the modern world. !Viva Latinoamerica! HISTORY 2240 History and Culture of Latin America 3 credit hours Description and analysis of factors shaping the development of Latin American civilization including pre-Columbian and European roots, colonial structure, independence movements, creation of modern states, and relations with the United States. Prerequisite: Course requires Reading Placement Test Score-Category One. (3 lecture hours) Recommended for students who are interested in the study of history, culture, and further study of any academic discipline that examines cultural, economic, political, artistic, ideological or historical themes related to Iberia, Latin America in general or its specific regions or nations.