Latin American History Goes to the Movies combines the study of the rich history of Latin America with the medium of feature film. In this concise and accessible book, author Stewart Brewer helps readers understand key themes and issues in Latin American history, from pre-Columbian times to the present, by examining how they have been treated in a variety of films. Moving chronologically across Latin American history, and pairing historical background with explorations of selected films, the chapters cover vital topics including the Spanish conquest and colonialism, revolution, religion, women, U.S.-Latin American relations, and more. Through films such as City of God, Frida, and Che, Brewer shows how history is retold, and what that retelling means for public memory. From Apocalypto to Selena, and from Christopher Columbus to the slave trade, Latin American History Goes to the Movies sets the record straight between the realities of history and cinematic depictions, and gives readers a solid foundation for using film to understand the complexities of Latin America's rich and vibrant history.

Latin American History Goes to the Movies combines the study of the rich history of Latin America with the medium of feature film. In this concise and accessible book, author Stewart Brewer helps readers understand key themes and issues in Latin American history, from pre-Columbian times to the present, by examining how they have been treated in a variety of films. Moving chronologically across Latin American history, and pairing historical background with explorations of selected films, the chapters cover vital topics including the Spanish conquest and colonialism, revolution, religion, women, U.S.-Latin American relations, and more. Through films such as City of God, Frida, and Che, Brewer shows how history is retold, and what that retelling means for public memory. From Apocalypto to Selena, and from Christopher Columbus to the slave trade, Latin American History Goes to the Movies sets the record straight between the realities of history and cinematic depictions, and gives readers a solid foundation for using film to understand the complexities of Latin America's rich and vibrant history.

The symbiotic relationship between the United States and Latin America has been filled with bitterness and anguish, on the one hand, and hope and cooperation, on the other. Each provides something the other lacks, and thus the relationship has the potential to work to the advantage of both. Brewer provides an introduction to the most important events in the diplomatic, military, social, and economic history of the relationship between the United States and countries of Latin America. The symbiotic relationship between the United States and Latin America has been filled with bitterness and anguish, on the one hand, and hope and cooperation, on the other. Each provides something the other lacks, and thus the relationship has the potential to work to the advantage of both. Brewer provides an introduction to the the most important events in the diplomatic, military, social, and economic history of the relationship between the United States and countries of Latin America. Soon after the American Revolutionary War, the new nation needed to build a solid relationship with Latin American countries in order to survive. The apex of hemispheric relations was not reached until World War II, when the area witnessed an unprecedented level of cooperation and mutual collaboration. This era ended with the onset of the Cold War, when the competition between capitalism and communism was fought by proxy throughout the developing world, adversely affecting the ability of Latin American nations to develop independent identities or thriving economies. Brewer argues that the events of 9/11 changed this relationship very little. Indeed, many of the issues that have long plagued U.S.-Latin American relations are returning as the United States focuses on the War on Terror in the Middle East and neglects its southern neighbors.