Examines Mexico's history and its peoples from indigenous periods to the arrival of Europeans and Spanish colonization including the mission system and rancherìas of California, New Mexico, and Colorado. Focuses on the independence movement and Mexico's relationship with the United States during westward expansion. Examines the 20th century by focusing on the Mexican Revolution and the factors which have resulted in continuous northern migration. Taught in English with Spanish readings for Spanish majors.
Narrative: All of the history classes have only glossed over Mexico and have only shown why Europe and the United States are important. This class looked at Mexico all of its history from the very beginning, even before it was considered Mexico. This was the first time I dove into Mexican history, so it was a bit challenging keeping up with all of the events and all of the key people in Mexican history. My favorite part of this class was looking at the Mexican Revolution and the key people like Porfirio Díaz and Emiliano Zapata.