SS25 – Tue/Thu: 12:40 PM – 2:00 PM

Are you curious about the deep, complex relationship between Puerto Rico and the United States? SPN 472: Paradise Lost and Found: Puerto Rico’s Colonial Odyssey and Resistance invites you to explore over a century of history, politics, and culture that have shaped the island and its people since 1898. Led by Prof. Rodríguez-Pereira, this course offers a dynamic and thought-provoking look into how colonialism has impacted Puerto Rican identity, citizenship, and the struggle for self-determination.

Through a blend of powerful stories told in literature, music, visual art, and film, you’ll dive into the lived experiences of Puerto Ricans—both on the island and abroad—and the various ways they have resisted and pushed back against colonial rule. Whether you’re passionate about social justice, history, or exploring cultural narratives, this course offers a chance to critically engage with themes that remain relevant today.

SPN 472 is perfect for students interested in understanding the complex layers of colonial history, cultural identity, and political resistance. It’s an opportunity to engage critically with these themes and gain a deeper perspective on Puerto Rico’s past and present.

For more information on the course, contact Prof. Rodríguez-Pereira (rodri783@msu.edu). For assistance with enrollment, reach out to Jennifer Gansler (gansler@msu.edu).