17.55J | Fall 2006 | Undergraduate

Introduction to Latin American Studies

Course Description

Interdisciplinary introduction to contemporary Latin America, drawing on films, literature, popular press accounts, and scholarly research. Topics include economic development, ethnic and racial identity, religion, revolution, democracy, transitional justice, and the rule of law. Examples draw on a range of countries …
Interdisciplinary introduction to contemporary Latin America, drawing on films, literature, popular press accounts, and scholarly research. Topics include economic development, ethnic and racial identity, religion, revolution, democracy, transitional justice, and the rule of law. Examples draw on a range of countries in the region, especially Mexico, Chile, and Brazil. Includes a heavy oral participation component, with regular breakout groups, formal class presentations on pressing social issues (such as criminal justice and land tenure), and a structured class debate.
Learning Resource Types
Lecture Notes
Written Assignments
Thousands of people protesting in Mexico City.
Post-electoral protests in Mexico City, July 2006. (Image courtesy of the Party of the Democratic Revolution (PRD).)