You will be given two of the following questions and will answer one. Remember to make ample use of the lectures, readings, and any appropriate videos to support your conclusions!
A)In the first decades of the 16th century, Spain would endeavor to set up a colonial system for its New World possessions. What early obstacles did the Spanish Crown face in establishing its authority over the Kingdom of New Spain (today’s Mexico)? What political and economic structures would Spain eventually install there? How would colonial society be organized in regards to issues of race, gender, & religion? But after almost two centuries of neglect, the late colonial period witnessed a transition towards a more “hands on” approach by Spain. What reforms did the Spanish monarchs enact during the 18th century in New Spain & why? How did the inhabitants there react to them?
b) After a decade of war, independence would come to Mexico in 1821. What were some of the long-term structural factors behind it? What were the short-term triggering events for independence? Would you say that Mexican independence can be best described more as a “revolution” against colonialism or simply the result of “circumstances” (explain)? As we have seen, colonial New Spain in 1800 had been a prosperous, politically stable, and relatively peaceful society. But two decades later, an independent Mexico had turned into an economic, political, & social “mess.” What hurdles (both internal & external) would Mexico confront in building a nation in the decades after independence? What role did political factionalism between conservatives and liberals play in the chaos that plagued Mexico through midcentury?
Last Completed Projects
| topic title | academic level | Writer | delivered |
|---|