Mexican American Studies
at Century High School


Course Syllabus: This UC A-G accredited class is a one-year long, interdisciplinary elective course open to juniors and seniors that are English proficient. This course meets State Standards and Framework goals and objectives .

Major Emphasis: To provide an overview of significant periods in the history of Mexico and the U.S. as a basis for establishing a greater understanding and appreciation of the dynamics and demographics of the Mexican people and Americans of Mexican descent. Guest speakers representing area colleges, universities, professionals, artists, authors will enhance students' learning, understanding, and cultural pride in the subject matter. Course related field trips will supplement topics to be covered. First semester will focus on historical timeline and essays while second semester will focus on Chicano literature. The course includes in-depth study of the following topics:



Pre-Columbian Cultures/Aztlan
European Conquest/Culture Clash
Colonization/Empire Building
Enlightenment/Independence
Mexican-American War
Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo
Immigration Trends/Then and Now
Benito Juarez/ Poririo Diaz Eras
Mexican Revolution
WWI/Depression/WWII Eras
Equal Rights Struggle/ La Causa
Zoot Suit Riots/Legacy
Mexican-American War Efforts
Political/Self-Determination
Cesar Chavez/UFW Movement
Chicano Movement/M.E.Ch.A.
Modern Era/NAFTA/Literature