This course examines significant historical turning points in Latin America since the Wars of Independence in the early nineteenth century. It explores the political institutions, social movements, revolutions, and economic developments that shaped the cultural, social, political and economic contours of the region. In addition to identifying larger historical watersheds, it pays attention to broader cultural impacts and to competing constructions of national identity. Its concern is with race, class and gender and their influences on the daily lives of ordinary people. HIST 250 will introduce students to the methods of historical practice, including primary-source analysis, historical writing, library and research skills, and public history.