History 693R - S-Readings/ColLatinAmericanHis

This course examines key moments and processes in the historical trajectories of colonial Latin America, with particular emphasis on the territories ruled by Spain. The principal focal point of discussion is the era of Iberian conquest and the nearly three centuries of Spanish and Portuguese colonial rule (ca. 1530 to 1809). Our conversations begin, however, by focusing on indigenous societies prior to European colonization (before 1492) and conclude with reflections on continuity and change between the colonial era and the nineteenth and twentieth centuries. Reading and discussion centers on prominent themes and debates in recent historiography on colonial Latin America. The dynamics of conquest, the creation and characteristics of colonial urban environments, the transformation of religious patterns and thought, the role of slavery in Iberian colonial societies, patterns of rebellion and resistance, and debates over the emergence of patriotic sentiments and attachments are just a few of the themes this course addresses. Wherever possible, class discussions and assignments make use of primary sources (historical texts, maps, and other visual images) in addition to secondary literature. An in-depth historiographical essay forms the centerpiece of written assignments. Students with a broad interest in colonial Latin American history and in the dynamics of colonialism and postcolonial thinking across the globe are encouraged to take this course, in addition to those with a specific interest in Latin America.

Open to Doctoral & Masters students only.