ANTH 240 - Peoples and Cultures of Latin America

3 Credit(s)

This course surveys the diversity of the Latin American region, paying particular attention to the different peoples and cultures that make up this complex and fascinating place. Beginning with an examination of the indigenous societies as they existed before the European arrival, this course considers the impacts of conquest and colonization on the formation of multiethnic and multicultural societies. Great emphasis is placed on the discussion of ethnicity, race, and gender utilizing anthropology as an important framework for discussing and developing these themes. Focusing on both the Spanish-speaking Caribbean and Latin America, the readings and class discussions explore a wide range of topics –from language and identity, violence and drugs, revolutions and social movements, to religious beliefs and artistic expressions. This rich analysis of the anthropological works and themes pertinent to the region culminates in a rethinking of the relationship between Latin America, her people, and the United States.