Polity Latina/o Studies (Short Introductions)

Who are Latinos? What’s the difference between Hispanic and Latino – or indeed Latina, Latina/o, Latin@, Latinx? Beyond the political rhetoric and popular culture representations, how can we explore what it means to be part of the largest minority group in the United States?This compelling book acts as an illuminating primer introducing the multidisciplinary field of Latina/o Studies. Bringing together insights from a wide variety of communities, the book covers topics such as the history of Latinos in the United States, gender and sexuality, popular culture, immigration patterns, and social movements. Mize traces the origins of the field from the history of Latin American revolutionary thought, through the Chicano and Puerto Rican movements, and key disruptions from Latina feminisms, queer studies, and critical race theory, right up to the latest developments and interventions.Combining analysis and advocacy, Latina/o Studies is an accessible yet theoretically sophisticated introduction to the communities charting the future of the United States of America and the Américas writ large. Review “This book serves as an engaging, concise introduction to Latino Studies, laying out the genesis of the field and presenting current themes. The discussion of the scholarship successfully balances comprehensiveness and depth, and the quality of the material is excellent.”Lourdes Torres, DePaul University“An inspiring story of resistance and solidarity.”Richard Delgado, University of Alabama“[A] comprehensive guide to both students and scholars who are interested in the growth of the discipline, as well as the historical foundations that inform ongoing debates.”Chiricú Journal“This readable and well-organised handbook serves as an engaging overview of a growing and vitally important scholarly field.”Bulletin of Latin American Research About the Author Ronald L. Mize is Associate Professor of Language, Culture, and Society at Oregon State University