In this course, we will explore the period known as the Conquest of Latin America with an emphasis on the Caribbean, Mexico, and the Andes. This epoch was brought about by a fascinating mix of encounters between a number of civilizations and worldviews, both in the “Old World” and the “New.” We will read classic textual accounts and maps as well as alternative written or drawn accounts in order to salvage a multitude of perspectives (emanating from various ethnicities and genders) from the historical record. We will also examine audiovisual sources (film and material culture) for an immersive, fun, and hopefully rewarding scholarly experience. Analysis of our readings will be buttressed by a consistent focus on information literacy skills that you can apply to all disciplines and lifelong learning. Our ultimate goal as a class will be to develop our research and critical thinking skills, which, combined with our diverse perspectives, will allow us to produce thoughtful and nuanced readings and analyses of this complex time.

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