GB 231: Puerto Rican Culture & History

This course introduces students to the social-political realities in Puerto Rico and its colonial relationship with the United States. September 20th, 2017, has marked a drastic change in the history and culture of the island. When Hurricane Maria struck the country, a more serious situation was unveiled. This course will focus on the colonial historical and economical context of Puerto Rico, including the debt crisis, the question of sovereignty, its infrastructure and the aftermath of the hurricanes of 2017. The course aims to give a concise view to the social, political, historical and cultural paradigms in which Puerto Rican Studies are based. This course includes a required service-learning component in Puerto Rico taking place during Spring Break.