History 397PR - ST-Power&Resistance/LatinAmer

Latin American history is filled with people taking collective action to shape their societies. This course surveys the history of Latin American and Caribbean social movements from the late nineteenth century to the present day, seeking to identify key patterns and lessons in the process. Why have ordinary Latin Americans joined social movements, often at high personal risk? How and when have those movements achieved their goals? What factors have influenced the forms and strategies that movements adopt? Some of the case studies will include struggles to abolish slavery in Cuba, labor movements in twentieth-century Chile and Brazil, peasant/indigenous movements in Mexico and the Andes, feminist and LGBT struggles in El Salvador, mobilization against military dictatorship in Argentina in the 1970s, the transnational campaigns against U.S. intervention in Central America in the 1980s, and struggles in defense of natural resources. We will also consider some of the groups who have mobilized in opposition to these movements. Requirements will include biweekly response papers, several quizzes, an in-class final exam, and active class participation. Some prior knowledge of modern Latin America is recommended but not required.

Open to Seniors, Juniors & Sophomores only.