POLSCI 393L: Latino/a/x/e Politics

This course explores the history and evolving role of Latinos in American politics, including the emergence of "Latino" as a pan-ethnic identity and the demographic trends shaping the group. Topics include the Americanization and racialization of Latinos, as well as the relationship between Latinos and non-Latinos as they relate to political institutions, representation, and voting coalitions. The course also examines how colonization, U.S.-Latin America relations, and U.S. immigration policy have shaped the U.S. Latino population, highlighting differences in how various national origin groups under the pan-ethnic umbrella have been received. The political, cultural, and institutional determinants of Latino identities will also be explored. The class will additionally focus on the development of Latino public opinion and partisanship, how these manifest in Latinos' political participation, and their importance in recent presidential and midterm elections.