History 366: The Americas, 1968-1999; Dictatorship, Neoliberalism & Solidarity

Covering the waning and the aftermath of the Cold War, the class will discuss the changes in diplomatic relations and foreign policy in the Americas, and the development of transnational networks of non-governmental organizations and individuals. Topics include the rhetorical and practical uses of human rights, the expansion and effects of neoliberalism and economic globalization, the expansion of religious organizations and NGOs, and the development of local and international social movements. The course will also analyze the ideologies, goals, and internal dynamics of armed and political struggles from the guerrilla forces against military dictatorship in the Southern Cone to the Quebec sovereignty movement in Canada. A constant theme of the class will be the flow of people in different immigration contexts, of goods and services through the creation of free trade zones, and of ideas with new communication technologies. The seminar will focus on the discussion of primary and secondary sources, movies and music, and assignments will include short essays, and creating an interactive map and timeline. May be taken for credit toward the Indigeneity, Race, and Ethnicity Studies major or minor.