HI 216: Latin America Since 1826

Instructor

  • Professor Rich Slatta welcomes you to History 216, Latin America Since 1826. In this course we explore the fascinating history and cultures of Latin America. Use this page as a "jumping off point" for World Wide Web excusions into a variety of topics. Review assignment requirements and other instructions in your syllabus. If you do not understand what you are asked to do, ASK! The menu items on the left will take you to related pages. Explore.

    Course Information

  • Disclaimer: Obviously all instructors, including me, change course assignments and books with some frequency. Thus the course you take may not be exactly that described. The course philosophy, approach and expectations, however, remain constant, so this description is an accurate if somewhat general guide of what to expect.

    Course Description

  • "History blended with pleasant instruction" [quote from a 19th-century Wild West Show poster] History 216 surveys the historical development of Latin America since those nations became independent from 1810 to 1826. A survey course is necessarily selective. We focus on a few major themes: elite political and economic domination, problems in rural society, political conflict and revolution, & the impact of US policies on Latin America.
    Class time is divided between discussions, mini-lectures,& video and student presentations. Class discussions, exams, essays & research projects help refine research and communication skills. We also view & discuss videotapes that let you see the people, places, and problems of Latin America. HI 216 has no prerequisite courses although knowledge of Spanish or Portuguese is helpful. If you are taking the class Credit Only or Satisfactory/Unsatisfactory, you are responsible for all assignments and you must earn a C (70%) average for credit.

    Participatory, Inquiry-Guided Learning
  • Learning is not a spectator sport. Intellectual exchanges involving all students and the instructor enrich learning for all. Studying history involves an accumulation of knowledge about the past and an understanding of the forces that shape the past and present. But we must also learn to communicate that knowledge, in writing and orally, to others. You must be ready to share your analyses in class. Obviously, you must be IN class to participate, so regular attendance is necessary. Short-answer exam questions are based on class activities, including videotape and slide presentations. Essays require knowledge of general themes & concepts developed in lectures and discussions supported with historical specifics from the reading and video presentations.

    Typical Assignments and Requirements

    • A few longer (1200-1500 word) Essays
    • Perhaps a few Objective Reading Quizzes
    • Group Research Reports and Wiki Projects
    • 10 or so brief (400-600 word) Answere to Thought Questions
    • Oline discussions submissions
    • Lots of small group and general class discussions
    • 2-3 books required for purchase, plus lots of free online primary sources