The legacy of Spain in the US is a complicated one. On the one hand, Spanish conquest and colonization had devastating effects on indigenous peoples of North America. On the other, Spain has had an extensive and lasting influence on American and Hispanic cultures, especially in the areas of language, religion, art, and architecture. Through a multidisciplinary approach, this class will explore the space that Spain has occupied in shaping America, from the early 16th century to today. It will also look ahead, as we try to envision what impact Spain will have on the US in the years to come. In order to understand the past, assess the present, and imagine the future, we will read chronicles from early Spanish explorers of North America, investigate Mission/Spanish revival architecture and painting, examine the testimonies of American travelers to Spain, and learn about social justice interventions of contemporary indigenous activists, including  attacks on statues linked to colonialism and slavery in the United States depicting prominent figures from Spain’s past.

Units: 1

Max Enrollment: 14

Prerequisites: Open to students who have completed SPAN 241 or equivalent (AP 5) or by permission of the instructor.

Instructor: Ramos

Distribution Requirements: LL - Language and Literature

Semesters Offered this Academic Year: Not Offered

Notes: This course is also offered at the 300 level as SPAN 344 with additional assignments.