HIS 2925 - CONTEMPORARY GUATEMALAN HISTORY

credits: 3.0
Will introduce students to recent history of the Central American country of Guatemala. Guatemala has been a trade partner with the U.S., has been a tourist destination for Americans and has a complex relationship with the United States. This course will survey that history with particular attention to the role of the United States in Guatemalan affairs, the long civil war directed particularly at indigenous farmers and its role in creating the “pan-Mayan” movement; and Guatemala’s recent attention to human rights. Objectives: A) To familiarize the student with the recent history of an important Central American nation; B) To explore the interrelationships between Guatemalan and U. S. interests; C) To develop analytical and critical skills through reading, discussion, writing and the design of research projects. Method of Instruction: Lecture-discussion; film and video; reading; possible speakers. Method of Evaluation: Participation, e.g., attendance and discussion participation (20%), reading response papers (five-one per week) (25%), written midterm and final exams (two) (30%) (15% each), Final project, which may take the form of a paper or more “hands-on” project (25%). Meets *NWP Distribution Requirements.