Latin American Studies

Teacher(s): Luis Paredes

Lessons: 4/week

In the Folk High School class Latin American Studies, we study the past and present of Latin American society and culture. Special emphasis on the contrast between the European and the Pre-Hispanic cultures and how they mixed through centuries to create what we know as Latin American.

Since Christopher Columbus’ arrival by mistake to America in 1492 the newly “discovered” continent began its role in the rapidly globalising world. Unfortunately, its role in the global scene started after being conquered and subjugated to become colonies of European countries with greater economic and military power. Ever since, these European powers have exploited the huge resources of Latin America, followed centuries later by the United States and in the recent decades also by China. Latin America’s history has been and still is a long and constant fight against exploitation and totalitarianism.

To understand the historical forces which have given shape to today’s prevalent situation in most countries of the subcontinent and to have a wider understanding of their different cultures and forms of art.

The Latin American Studies class consists of a theoretical part where we learn about the historical facts and cultural characteristics of the region through presentations, films, slide shows, readings and round table debates. This is combined with research, design, development and implementation of projects.