Topics in Latin American and Caribbean Studies (391-0-21)
Topic
Nationalism & Archaeology in the Americas
Instructors
Roberto Rosado Ramirez
1810 Hinman Ave.
Meeting Info
University Hall 218: Wed, Fri 3:30PM - 4:50PM
Overview of class
What role has archaeology played in the emergence and consolidation of modern nation-states in the Americas? Across the world, states use monuments and archaeological artifacts to present national narratives in museums, ancient sites, and online platforms. In the Americas, nation-states have controlled who has access to the material remains from the past while transforming buildings, historic places, monuments, and artifacts into national patrimony. In the process of creating national patrimony, nation-states often estrange Indigenous communities from their landscapes and their cultural heritage. In this course, we will examine the role of archaeology in the creation and preservation of national identities in the Americas from the 18th century to the present. In weekly readings and discussions, we will learn about the institutionalization of archaeology as a state-sponsored discipline, the development of archaeological sites as national monuments and tourist destinations, the display and interpretation of artifacts in museums and heritage sites, and the monopolization of tangible cultural heritage by the state. Ultimately, we will evaluate the intersections of identity and politics throughout the history of the Americas.
Teaching Method
Seminar
Evaluation Method
Class participation, reaction papers, final project.
Class Materials (Required)
All required readings will be available on Canvas.