Latinoamerica: Presente y pasado

Introduces readers to 15th century Europe and Columbus's life and first voyage. Covers the main pre-Columbian civilizations of the New World, the Spanish enterprise of exploration and conquest, and the colonial period of Spanish America. Describes the independence period of Spanish America and the emergence of the new Spanish American nations. Discusses the main intellectual, artistic and literary trends of 20th century Spanish America. Supplements readings with exercises that emphasize language acquisition of cultural material, test comprehension, and elicit readers' reactions to issues raised.