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Investigate the history of Spanish colonialism in the U.S.
September 10, 2002
Web posted at: 4:54 PM EDT (2054 GMT)
Overview: A new museum celebrates the history of Spanish colonial culture in the U.S. Challenge students to learn about the Spanish colonial era and how Spanish explorers and settlers contributed to the cultural evolution of the Southwestern United States.
Have students read the story "New museum pays homage to America's first settlers" and answer the following questions:
1. Where is the new Museum of Spanish Colonial Art located? What is the mission of this museum? Why is it historically and socially significant? What works of art are featured in this museum?
2. When did New Mexico become linked to Anglo North America? How did Anglo expansion during the 1800s impact traditional Spanish art? Do you think it is important to preserve the Hispanics' cultural heritage and their artistic traditions? State your rationale.
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3. Remind students that, in 1565, Spanish explorers and settlers established the first permanent European settlement in the U.S. in Saint Augustine, Florida. During the 1600s and 1700s, Spanish explorers established other settlements in present-day Arizona, California, Southern Colorado, New Mexico, and Texas. Challenge students to learn more about the Spanish colonial era and how Spanish explorers and settlers contributed to the cultural evolution of the Southwestern United States. Divide your class into five groups and have each group conduct research to learn about the history and cultural evolution of either rizona, California, Colorado, New Mexico, or Texas. Direct each group to identify:
The Spaniards who were instrumental in the formation of the state;
The extent to which the Mexican War (1846-1848) impacted the Spanish influence on the state;
Which Spanish colonial traditions continue to exist.
After the groups make formal presentations of their findings, discuss how each of the Spanish explorers and settlers impacted the state or region. Are there aspects of Spanish culture that are unique to each state or region? If so, why do these cultural differences exist? Discuss.
Extension: Have your class host a mock museum exhibit on Spanish colonial culture in the U.S. Challenge each group to draw upon its research to create a multimedia installation on one aspect of Spanish colonial culture. Invite guests from the school and community to attend the exhibit. Instruct group members to take turns giving tours of their exhibits.
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