Application Form is attached below
Students in this course will research Mexican history through a range of materials in the Newberry Library’s Edward E. Ayer Collection. We will consider how to review, rethink, and revise historical narratives through this (or any) particular archive. Students will develop individual research projects in the second half of the class.
Primary documents provide the backbone for our research; we will explore them to see the many varied ways in which Mexico and its people have been imagined, both by foreigners and from within. As they explore materials from the 1519 Spanish invasion of Aztec Tenochtitlan to the Mexican Revolution of the early 20th century, students will analyze how texts and images have shaped “Mexico” as a concept. Together, course participants will reveal how documented history has played a major role in the articulation of Mexico as an idea, as an empire, as a nation, and as a racialized place.
Classes will meet Tuesday and Thursday afternoons at the Newberry Library, 60 W. Walton Street, Chicago, IL 60610. The first half of the course will meet as a seminar to discuss readings, participate in collection presentations, and lectures. During the second half of the course, students will use the Newberry’s collections to write their own research papers, and they will present their work to the Newberry scholarly community at the end of the semester. NLUS Students are extended the same privileges as fellows– reserve research space and extended hours at the building.
Spanish language skills are welcome but not required. For more information about registering for the seminar, please contact your campus NLUS advisor.
The course carries 6 credits of LAS 495 which can then be applied to students' majors or minors.
Here's a link to the spring course description:
Here's a link to a description of the program (with past course topics/instructors):
If you are interested in taking this seminar, please complete the application located below and submit the application and all related materials electronically to Professor Ellen McClure (ellenmc@uic.edu) by October 21, 2022.
Successful candidates will be notified by November 4. Admission is competitive, so it is important that you complete this application form completely and with care.
