131-220 Rebels and Revolution in Latin America

Usually 12.5 points of first-year history.

The subject introduces students to the histories and cultures of Latin America through study of a number of significant issues and events. Beginning with an account of the arrival of the Spanish and Portuguese in the hemisphere, the subject will briefly investigate the experiences of different peoples in the nations of Central and South America through the colonial period and into independence, with emphasis on the 20th century. Themes to be emphasised include slavery and the ending of slavery, social and political change, revolutions, human rights, immigration, race and attitudes to racial mixing, economic development and dependence, environmental issues, and culture. We discuss the Cuban Revolution, Peronism in Argentina, and the overthrow of Salvador Allende in Chile in 1973, among other topics. We pay particular attention to the role of the United States and the exercise of its enormous power in Central and South America in the 20th century.

• demonstrate research skills through competent use of the library and other information sources;

• show critical thinking and analysis through recommended reading, essay writing and tutorial discussion, and by determining the strength of an argument;

• demonstrate understanding of social, ethical and cultural context through the contextualisation of judgements, developing a critical self-awareness, being open to new ideas and possibilities and by constructing an argument.

A research essay of 2500 words 60% (due mid-semester) and a review essay of 1500 words 40% (due at the end of semester).