Latin history children should know and remember
1819, Gran Colombia is formed, unifying several South American territories
1846–1848, Mexico loses much of its territory in the Mexican-American War
1959, the Cuban Revolution, overthrowing Batista’s regime by Fidel Castro
1970s, the Chicano Movement focuses on Mexican American civil rights
1980–1992, the Salvadoran Civil War is a brutal conflict with deep social impact
2000, Vicente Fox’s election in Mexico ends a 71-year one-party rule
Celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month September 15 to October 15
Book lists involving Latin perspectives and themes
Essential quotes about the Latin experience
“Preservation of one’s own culture does not require contempt or disrespect for other cultures.”
Cesar Chavez
“You are the hyphen in Mexican-American. You are the bridge to both worlds.”
Sandra Cisneros
“I am my own muse, the subject I know best.”
Frida Kahlo
“The immigrant experience is within me, passed down like precious heirlooms heirlooms.”
Diane Guerrero
“I write to record what others erase when I speak, to rewrite the stories the stories others have miswritten about me, about you.”
Gloria Anzaldúa
“Being Latino means being from everywhere, and that is exactly what America is supposed to be about.”
Raquel Cepeda
Understanding the Latin experience through stories
The Latin experience is an intricate blend of diverse cultures, languages, and traditions, spanning from the warmth of Caribbean rhythms to the richness of South American folklore. Storytelling plays a critical role in bringing these varied experiences to life, serving as “windows” to other cultures and “mirrors” reflecting the diversity of Latin communities. For children, these stories form an essential framework for understanding a world that is both vibrant and complex.
The term “Latin” refers to people of Latin American descent, encompassing individuals from 20 countries in Central and South America, as well as the Caribbean. This creates a rich mosaic of experiences influenced by Indigenous cultures, the African diaspora, European colonization, and more. The diverse geography—ranging from the Andean peaks to tropical islands—adds further layers to the experience.
The history of Latin America is marked by both challenges and triumphs, from the fight against oppressive regimes to significant contributions in art, literature, and science. Figures like Simón Bolívar and Frida Kahlo, or events like the Cuban Revolution, offer profound lessons in resilience, courage, and the quest for justice.
Children’s literature plays a crucial role in preserving and transmitting this rich cultural heritage. Works like Esperanza Rising by Pam Muñoz Ryan and The Dreamer by both Ryan and Peter Sís provide younger readers with a nuanced understanding of the Latin experience. These stories function as both windows and mirrors, allowing children to see the world through multiple perspectives while also seeing themselves represented in the narrative.
Understanding the Latin experience involves more than learning a language or enjoying a dish; it's about grasping the diverse histories, cultures, and social contexts that make up this vibrant community. Children’s literature that serves as windows and mirrors can help young readers explore these facets, enriching their worldview and fostering a true sense of belonging.
