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Name Hinal Patel
Journal #3 – American Involvement in Latin America & Domestic Climate
During WWII
Take copious notes on these film clips and readings
. Then, give thoughtful responses to the following questions for each film/reading selection. For each question, bring in analysis from our weekly readings.
“The Storm that Swept Mexico” – first 15 min
1.
What are the “two Mexico’s”? Two mexico’s were the result of the social process of the Mexican revolution. Northern Mexico and central to southern Mexico share some similarities although there are many more differences such as class differences as well as the
ideology and appearances resulting from the exploitation of Indians and racism has a huge impact on Mexico. Many of the widespread ideology and differences are contributing to the idea of “two Mexico”
2.
Porfirio Diaz
Porfirio Diaz was a president who ruled Mexico for more than 30 years with an “iron wrist” emphasizing that he was a dictator, some believe he was belovant father and others thought he was the man who sold Mexico to the foreigners through allowing in investors to increase the economy but this also consequently
gave us gaming their investing and exerting their power throughout the mexico . He is also of the lighter complexion and follows European style of clothing not only that but also favored European rules and policies which gives a perspective of his class consciousness and racial categorizing ideas. 3.
What do the cientificos
think is Mexico’s biggest problem?
Porfirio Diaz surrounded himself around cientificos who were a group of technocrats. They control much of the nation's wealth and are classified in the system. They did not specifically care about anyone who is not their same status. Cientificos played an important role in steering up the system as well as the economic policies in Mexico by opening up connections to other nations. They believed the biggest problem mexico were facing was the indigenous population therefore forces them out 4.
Who did Mexico look toward for artistic influence during the Porfiriato
During the Porfiriato era, which spanned the time Porfirio Diaz was in power in Mexico, the country looked to Europe for inspiration in art and expression. Diaz held elitist views and believed that Europeans were more modern, civilized, and accomplished than the indigenous people of Mexico which also stems from his 1
racial perspective as well. As a result, he sought to modernize and civilize the nation by promoting industrialization and investing in infrastructure. This led to European artistic styles and influences shaping Mexico's architecture, fashion, and even social policies. Even after the Mexican Revolution, European styles of building, gargoyles, clothing, and cultural practices continued to be embraced in Mexico.
5.
What are haciendas
, and what control did they have in the economy
Haciendas is a large estate that plays a significant role in the economy and society of mexico. Haciendas served as labor systems and relied on people of indigenous and Mexican descent to be working on these lands. The working conditions were often harsh and abused through the hands of the landowner and
faced exploitation and injustice within the system. Although Haciendas were presented as an education and shelter that can compensate for the labor provided, most of these lands were stolen. The big estates were controlled by a small number of wealthy landowners which contributed to the economy of Mexico, however since the only number of people controlling big lands the wealth is not distributed among the general population and even used for the government.
6.
Describe the working conditions of the Mexican rural poor
Working conditions for those who were working in the haciendas were often faced with harsh and brutal conditions that involved oppression and abuse. Many of the workers were compelled to work endless hours, facing inhumane treatment as if they were animals rather than humans. usually they were not given any time for their own selves, they were forced to work similarly to the black code in america. These abuses were being justified against the Spanish authority
7.
How did the working conditions of many Mexicans reflect what we have discussed about the Black codes, American slavery, and immigrants working in the U.S.
Many of the working conditions faced by Americans in haciendas are a mirror image of the oppressive system observed in the black code in america. In both America and Mexico the exploitative nature of labor was being enforced and forced people to work endless hours, minimal wages and used punishments such
as beating with a whip, physical abuse and mental abuse as a form to keep them in the oppressive side. The living condition in those who experienced the American slave where they were forced to live in an area with more population than it can fit additionally without the basic life amenities such as water and toilet which is similar to what their living condition in Mexico was as well. reflecting on how both American oppression on Black people and the Mexican oppression on the indigenous population were a way to dehumanize and cruelty injustice in which wealthy and superior races or in class manipulated and exploited the poor. 8.
Taft’s Dollar Diplomacy in Latin America
2
The United States had an important hand while investing in Mexico, particularly in railroads, agriculture and petroleum. Many American landowners in Mexico were vocal about implementing measures and policies to protect their investments. During Taft's presidency, Dollar Diplomacy was introduced with the
goal of promoting economic development in Latin America. However, in reality, the practical implementation of this policy primarily served the interests of American companies, aiming to generate profits within these Latin American nations. Along with this the global financial crisis had the most impact was ensured by Mexicans due to their job losses and economic downturn led to the challenging situation for the working class. This also gave rise to the tensions between US and Mexico relationship. 9.
Importance of the strike in Cananea, Mexico The strike in Cananea, Mexico played an important role historically. Firstly it emerged to the responses of exploited working conditions and manager wages in
the mining industry. There was a large wage gap between the US workers and the Mexican workers, with the US workers being paid up to twice as much, consequently upsetting the Mexican workers which made them go on the strike to demand for equal pay and rights. This contributed to the broader social and political discontent that fueled the revolutionary movement in mexico. “Harvest of Empire”
10.
What are some of the reasons that so many Latin Americans migrate(d) to the United States?
The migration of many Latin Americans to the United States was a result of the complexion of push and pull factors. The "push factors" encompass issues like resource scarcity, oppressive governance, and challenging living conditions in their countries of origin. The idea of the "American dream" and the prospects of improved opportunities act as significant "pull factors." for these latin American migrants. However these push factors reveal a greater picture because if we take Puerto Ricans for example, they faced unequal treatments, and racial issues that not only affected them that time but currently as well. The alluring of “better life”
in the US is fraught with challenges because of the immigration policies but also from the stereotypes of non-whites that infused how they are represented and treated in America. American Companies and businesses have often taken advantage of latin american countries in terms of exploiting people by paying low wages and unreal benefits and these were the exploitation these latin american countries were trying to get away from and to seek better opportunity by migrating. 11.
Guatemala
– why would the U.S. want to overthrow the Arbenz government? What threat did he pose?
The US wants to overthrow the Arbenz government in Guatemala because they were progressive and were implementing a goal to reduce widespread poverty; they
perceive
him as a threat due to his land reforms. The Arbenz government 3
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was aiming to redistribute the land that the American business and companies own to provide land resources and more jobs. Especially the United fruit company which held a large amount of land in guatemala. 12.
Where do the indigenous and Maya-descended people fit into the social structure of Guatemala? What parallels can you draw for how they were treated, to how groups in the U.S. have been treated?
Throughout Guatemala's history, indigenous and Maya-descended individuals have been subjected to discrimination and marginalization within their society. They have frequently been confined to lower socioeconomic statuses, deprived of educational and employment opportunities, and confronted with systematic inequalities. These experiences pose similarities to those of marginalized groups in the United States, such as African Americans and Native Americans. One of the many injustices were the Native American in the US were murdered and forced off their land which is exactly what happens to the indigenous and maya descended people in Guatemala, they were forced out of their land to the outskirts into the forest. This reflected the dehumanization of these populations in society. 13.
El Salvador
– What are some things that happened to the citizens deemed “the enemy” in the country?
I
n El Salvador,During a period of conflict anyone who opposed US foreign policy was considered "the enemy." This included individuals who had no involvement or opinion on US foreign policy. Many innocent people, children and women were
targeted and killed. Entire villages were destroyed, and people were subjected to rape, beatings, torture, and murder. The violence and persecution led to forced displacement, as people were finding a way to escape the dangers associated with being labeled as "enemies." Many became refugees in other countries or internally displaced within El Salvador. Additionally
to control the population and the narrative
the government also adopted tactics to silence opposition voices through censorship. This included restricting the media and targeting activists, intellectuals, and anyone expressing different
views.
14.
Who is Bishop Romero? What was his platform and what happened to him because of it?
Bishop Romero was a Catholic bishop who was known for the position of respect and authority in the church. He influenced his platform to advocate for the rights and concerns of salvadoran people against social injustice, human rights and poverty. He strongly opposed the government and the military’s violence on the people and human right abuse of such a brutal and cruel suffering, Due to his outspoken criticism of the government and his support for the oppressed, Romero became a target of powerful forces opposed to his message and consequently was assassinated by a gunman most of the people believe this was carried out by the salvadoran military as a political motive. His dealth marked a 4
turning point in the El Salvador’ civil conflicts additionally intensified the international scrutiny of the human rights situation. 15.
What is the School of the Americas, and what role does it play in U.S. foreign engagement?
The School of Americas played a huge role in shaping the US foreign policies regarding the war. The School of America trained many of the Latin American countries and the graduates of this school were trained to use brute force against
anything that could be remotely perceived as a threat. Considering America's history of using violence to force people out of their land or for financial gain, these actions did not surprise me. Furthermore many of the graduates from this school went on to their country and became dictators which was all along the plan of the US in terms of securing the US power and influences in those nations. It’s surprising how these schools are still present and are being funded by the tax
money people have been paying.
16.
What is your opinion on the low numbers of migrants allowed to migrate to the U.S. from El Salvador, given what happened in their country? Explain your position.
The limited number of migrants allowed to enter the U.S. from El Salvador, given the historical context of the country's struggles, evokes a sense of outrage. The actions of the U.S. in various nations, often intervening without accountability for
the resulting hardships, contribute to this frustration. The U.S. has a troubling pattern of intervening in the affairs of other countries, often leaving behind a trail of consequences without assuming responsibility. This lack of accountability
becomes glaringly evident when considering the difficulties faced by citizens of nations where the U.S. has played a role. Propaganda has played a role in disseminating prejudiced stereotypes, shaping a narrative that blames these countries and negatively portrays their people. If the problems stem from U.S. interference, I believe that individuals from those nations should be permitted to
immigrate and seek asylum, given the U.S.'s historical role in land acquisition and
creating challenges for other countries.
17.
Mexico
– What are some issues faced by migrants crossing the US/Mexico border?
Many of the migrants were faced with legal obstacles related to immigration policies which make it significantly different for them to enter us legally which is one of the reasons many of the migrants are forced to cross the border illegally. The physical aspect of crossing the border can be perilous and brutal, It is dangerous for migrants to even cross the desert area just to reach the border due
to the miles and miles of walking in the desert, many died due to heart stroke, lack of food and water and extreme heat
5
18.
How did NAFTA affect Mexican citizens?
NAFTA, the North American Free Trade Agreement among Canada, the United States, and Mexico, aims to facilitate trade and economic growth. While Canada and the United States benefit with increased cross-border trade, economic prosperity, and profits, Mexico faces challenges due to an uneven distribution of advantages. Particularly, Mexican farmers engaged in subsistence agriculture find themselves at a disadvantage, competing against heavily subsidized agricultural products from the United States. Additionally, various industries in Mexico undergo job losses as they contend with the competitive pressures. These
economic disparities contribute to the compulsion for Mexican families to migrate across the border, seeking better employment opportunities to sustain their households. This scenario underscores the impact of US interference in contributing to the imbalanced nature of trade and business for Mexico.
19.
Given the nature of media coverage of illegal immigration, how does this documentary counter that narrative that is commonly seen through our media outlets?
The documentary gives perspective from the Mexican side. The documentary shows how people are forced to leave their home countries because those places are not stable and can't provide basic needs. Moving to a new country is tough, and many immigrants feel like they don't belong in America, facing challenges in fitting in. The challenges of leaving one's familiar environment are difficult, compounded by the sense of not belonging and feeling unwelcome in America. The struggle to fit into a new culture is a significant hardship faced by many immigrants. Importantly, the media's portrayal of illegal immigrants often neglects to acknowledge that the instability resulting in the migration is, in part, a consequence of America's historical interference in these countries. The documentary also gives a counter argument of the negative discourse of the word “illegal” immigrants, exposing the US with evidence that the people they dehumanize and discourage migrants are coming from a place where they are getting tortured, murdered, starved to death and facing extreme poverty.
20.
Think of a place you would (want) to immigrate to. List the country, and Google what you would have to do to get there. Could you? What would you have to do? What opposition would you face?
I am interested in immigrating to Norway. To do so, I would first need to apply for a residence permit that would allow me to stay in Norway for reasons such as
work, study or family. Then, I would need to check the eligibility for the specific program I am interested in, for example, I would like to pursue advanced studies in medicine, and therefore need to specify a recognized educational institution in
Norway that offers a relevant study program. Additionally, some programs may require language proficiency in Norwegian or English. Another important factor is demonstrating that I have sufficient funds to support my living expenses and tuition fees. I would also need to obtain health insurance either through private or public means. However, there are some challenges that I would face in immigrating to Norway. One of them being the high cost of living, which can be a significant hurdle. Another challenge may be integrating into the culture, as 6
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Norwegians are known for being reserved compared to other extroverted nations, and therefore, making connections may take some time.
Jim Crow Guide – Chapter 4
21.
How is ‘evidence’ and ‘appearance’ used in determining how you might be perceived with regard to your race?
-
Race of an individual was a very subjective matter during the jim crow because it was a communication of physical characteristics, societal status, and how the evidence is comprehended. for examples states having even one
drop of african blood makes one Black person, and in some states being ⅛ to 1/32 which reflects on the arbitrary and the inconsistencies nature of racial classifications during jim crow era and this also points out how there is a lack
of rational basis for these determinations. Physical appearances was most commonly used to determine an individual's race based on the stereotypes. the determination of race was inconsistent, subjective and most often rooted in stereotypical beliefs about physical and social associates. 22.
In what ways does not being an American serve if you are ‘colored’?
As we learned many times, people of color have been subjected to injustice, discrimination and racism based on their race or color of their skin. These differences can as well intertwine within the system of restricted work, access to education, opportunities in the workplace and medical treatments. These injustice people have faced being American or not will not necessarily work to one's advantages given the prejudice is about race. However, not being an American can serve to provide more resources in their home countries for example insurances and programs that are for the citizens of that country. 23.
What did you think of the “White” man in South Africa being forced to register as Black?
Racial classification policies have been a topic of intense debate due to their controversial nature. For instance, where a white man in South Africa is required to register as black, which can be quite unsettling. This particular example underscores the fact that racial classification is a social construct that is not fixed and can be subject to government control. The use of such policies can have significant impact for individuals' lives and well-being, as it raises questions about identity. It is unsettling because it means that the government is imposing a sense of identity on individuals, rather than allowing them to determine it for themselves based on their personal experiences and self-perception. It is critical to examine the implications of such policies. 7
24.
What are the connections of this piece, modern day? (What is hegemony
?)
Hegemony is the control that one group can exert over others, it can be in terms of political, economic, shape ideology and culture norms. One of the connections of this piece to the modern day is the ongoing conflict between Israel and Palestine. Israel has been exerting political control over territories in an attempt to expand its land, resulting in many political hegemonies between the two nations. Additionally, Israel's economic strength and control over resources have a significant impact on the livelihood of Palestine. Israel has the power to grant or deny access to water, land and economic opportunities, exacerbating the economic hegemony over Palestine.
Chapter 1 “If San Francisco, Then Everywhere?”, Color of Law
25.
Explain the process of housing built during the War, and its careful lack of resources The Housing built during the war in Richmond were specifically for African Americans. The segregation of public housing was deliberate neglect in terms of resources and quality of poor construction to have shorter durability and unsafe. These homes were built close to the job sites and railroad track, because they knew it was a lot of noise and population. Moreover, a deliberate lack of resources manifested in inadequate plumbing, contributing to harsh living conditions. The intentional overcrowding influenced the issues of cleanliness and facilitated the rapid spread of illnesses, symbolizing deeply ingrained racial discrimination against the African American community. Conversely, homes designated for white individuals were situated in quieter and aesthetically pleasing residential areas. This unequal treatment underscores the systemic racism prevalent in urban planning and housing policies.
26.
What were Ford’s hiring practices? How and why did they change?
Ford' hiring practices, like those of many contemporaneous companies, were steeped in discriminatory practices and systemic racism within the workplace. Ford explicitly prohibited individuals of color from working at his company, even having a board that advised against hiring Mexicans and Black workers. This discriminatory stance only changed due to the worker’s union establishing policies that prevented Ford from firing African American workers solely just to take in the White workers. To justify his actions, Ford argued that Black workers were only "filling in" positions. The United Automobile Workers (UAW) union played a crucial role in prohibiting policies that aimed to take away jobs from African American for a White individuals. Despite addressing this issue, individuals of color often found themselves relegated to the lowest or most labor-intensive jobs within the company.
27.
Elaborate on the role of the Real Estate Association, insurance companies, and city government, for how
they created ‘ghettos’ (like in East Palo Alto)
8
The Real Estate Association, alongside other housing associations, actively engaged in discriminatory practices, with redlining being a prominent example. Redlining involved marking neighborhoods based on the racial composition of residents, designating areas with a high population of African Americans or other people of color as "high risk." This classification complicated the process of
securing loans and closing housing deals. When assisting individuals in finding homes, real estate agents, influenced by racial biases, often avoided showing African Americans houses in predominantly white neighborhoods, directing them toward areas predominantly inhabited by people of color. This practice effectively contributed to the creation of distinct neighborhoods based on racial profiles. Real estate agents have employed another tactic involving the manipulation of racial fears to prompt white homeowners to sell their homes quickly. For instance, if a person of color moves into the neighborhood, agents may approach white families and manipulate the situation by suggesting that property values in the area will decrease in the future. These practices by the real estate association contribute to the creation of "ghettos" and reinforce economic disparities in housing.
28.
How do you think a ‘ghetto’ is created today? (Think within and outside of the box)
Ghettos continue to be formed through a combination of historical tactics and ongoing systemic issues. Despite regulations against discriminatory practices, there are instances of people of color being directed to live in areas with environmental hazards such as noisy freeways or near power lines. These locations often lack essential resources like clean water and are marked by safety
concerns. Media narrates the problem by unfairly blaming these communities for
their challenges, overlooking the structural inequalities they face. Additionally, government-funded housing designated for low-income families is sometimes placed in these already struggling areas, perpetuating the cycle of economic instability. This discriminatory practice not only shapes where people live but also influences how they are perceived and treated. It highlights the need for comprehensive efforts to address systemic issues and create equitable living conditions for all communities.
Chapter 9 “State Sanctioned Violence”, Color of Law
9
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29.
Considering Levittown’s genesis as a perfect suburb- how was that racially maintained?
The Myers, an African American family, were harassed by members of the community such as young children and their parents when they moved into Levittown. they were not allowed to play outside with the white kids or Black people cannot even pass by the neighborhood. Despite the vandalism and harassment, there was no real action taken to stop it. Even the law enforcement rather than providing assistance was involved in the harassment. This reflects how law enforcement was actively preventing black families from living in Levittown, and punishing anyone who spoke out against it, causing fear of losing their jobs. 30.
What treatment did Black homeowners face in cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, Philadelphia, etc.? What was the purpose
of the ‘state’ allowing it?
Black homeowners in cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and Philadelphia experienced severe racial discrimination in terms of housing. They confronted multiple forms of inequality, including redlining, housing covenants, and violent attacks and harassment from white residents. The 'state' permitted these practices because of deeply ingrained racial prejudice in the United States. Frequently, the government turned a blind eye, and even law enforcement officers played a role in the harassment.
31.
Even after the War, how were Black veteran would-be homeowners not allowed to participate in the benefits of ‘defeating fascism’ that they actively helped secure?
Many African Americans were optimistic that World War II would bring about unity and end the segregation imposed by white supremacists. Unfortunately, Black veterans were excluded from veteran relief bills like the GI Bill, which primarily benefited white veterans. Despite their service in the war, Black veterans did not receive the same benefits as their white counterparts. This pattern extended to other post-WWII programs, including the GI Bill and social security, which systematically excluded people of color. Consequently, Black veterans were deprived of these advantages, contributing to the persistent wealth gap between white and Black communities, as white veterans could accumulate generational wealth through these government-supported programs.
10
32.
How did the ‘state’ participate in the acts of violence, for American citizens, who happened to be ethnic, and how does it relate to today?
The state's involvement in acts of violence against American citizens, particularly
those belonging to ethnic minorities, has been evident through various discriminatory practices, policies, and actions by law enforcement. The issue of police brutality, specifically directed towards Black individuals and people of color, has gained significant attention. The oppressive practices historically orchestrated by the white majority often continue, with a notable lack of accountability and a tendency to portray themselves as victims. People of color face constant threats to their safety, even in routine activities like walking outside, as encounters with law enforcement or others can turn deadly. It highlights the pressing need to address systemic problems and ensure the safety and equality of everyone.
11