Primary Sources
- Gertrudís Gómez de Avellaneda, Sab [Full novel at biblioteca.org]Classic novel on the immoral and problematic nature of Cuban slavery, originally published in 1841. *Spanish-language source*
- "To Him" and other poems by Gertrudís Gómez de Avellaneda [English translations]
- What do Avellaneda's poems say about mid-nineteenth century culture in Cuba?
- 1841 Convention with Peru for the Satisfaction of Claims of American Citizens [at Yale Avalon Project]
- What sorts of claims does this diplomatic arrangement attempt to settle? What does this document say about relations between the United States and Peru?
- James K Polk, "Message of War With Mexico," 11 May 1846 [at PBS]
- What claims does President Polk make in his message to the U.S. Congress in which he calls for war with Mexico? Are those claims founded? Why or why not?
- “More Like A Pig Than a Bear”: Mariano Guadalupe Vallejo Is Taken Prisoner During the Bear Flag Revolt, 1846
- What was Vallejo's background, and why did he welcome the American occupation of California? How did he attempt to protect his rights following the American takeover? Was he successful? Why or why not?
- Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo [at Yale Avalon Project]
- Articles VIII, IX, and X are those that were of most concern to the Mexican negotiators. What provisions do those articles make? Why do you think they were of utmost importance, from the Mexican perspective? During ratification proceedings, Article X was stricken from the treaty by the U.S. Congress. Why do you think that was the case? Additionally, Article XI was deleted from the treaty under the provisions of the 1853 Gadsden Purchase (Treaty of La Mesilla). What did that article provide for? Why would U.S. representatives push for its removal from the treaty?