It can be a challenge to introduce students to a world region with the cultural diversity and rich history of Latin America. In this article, the author suggests four thematic units that enable teachers to identify both general trends and important differences in the region: (1) race/ethnicity; (2) progress and civilization; (3) conflict and…

Bernstein argues that current criticisms of Columbus are an ideologically motivated rewriting of the past and that the point of studying history is to understand development not validate particular ideologies. Zappia criticizes the artistic community for its attempts to discredit Columbus and to eulogize the civilizations he allegedly destroyed.…

Asserts that scholarship on the formative period of the African presence in the Americas is still in its infancy. Explores the role of ethnicity in the construction of the lives of African-born slaves in Mexico City during the early 1600s. Discusses implications of the findings, including the impact of ethnicity on marriage choices. (CFR)