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.
Course Reflection
By taking the history and politics of Mexico I was able to fulfill my MLO 3, a secondary culture course, and gain a better understanding of Mexican culture. First, with this course, I learned about the various tribes of indigenous people and their lifestyles and beliefs. Then we studied about Spain’s conquest, and rule of Mexico, followed by how Mexico’s independence and how the Mexican government has been until present day. We studied about these topics through assigned readings as well as in class lectures and were tested on our understanding through cumulative tests such as a midterm and final.