This assignment is a end of the year research project for a class focusing on politics in Latin America and I chose this as my topic. Next are the instructions the teacher attached for the assignment: Each student is required to write a 15-20 page paper (double-spaced, 12 font, 1” margins) analyzing a
particular issue. The purpose of this assignment is two-fold: 1) to allow a student to delve into a
particular issue in more depth than our class discussions allow; and 2) to apply your analytical and
communication skills to the study of this region.
The paper is meant to be analytical in nature, not descriptive. In other words, it should analyze and/or
explain a political development in the region. Each paper should be driven by a research question and
ask “why” or “how” questions (not “what” questions).
Students will propose their topic in advance. Students should choose a topic about which they are
interested and write about that topic in one of the countries that we are learning about in class (Cuba,
Mexico, Guatemala, Chile, Peru, Brazil). A brief proposal will be handed in at the beginning of class on
February 22. The proposal should state the research question driving the analysis, why this topic is both
interesting and important, and list several (3-4) resources that the student plans to consult when
researching the issue. After the proposal is received the professor will both approve the topic and
provide comments and suggestions to the student. This is worth 5%.
When choosing a topic, it is best to visit me during office hours to discuss possible topics. Some possible
topics include (but are not limited to) the role of social movements, indigenous politics, gender and/or
sexuality and politics, the state of democracy, human rights, crime, the rise of populism, the war on
drugs, free trade, and poverty and inequality in the region. The final draft of the paper is due online on April 28, 5 pm. The final draft, which will report your
findings, must be analytical in nature, clearly written, well documented, and put forth a convincing
argument. I strongly encourage you to visit to Writing Center and share a second draft with me in
advance of the due date. Writing style is very important part of the grade. If you do not effectively
transmit your ideas in written format, you cannot make a convincing argument. 20%
Students should use the Chicago Manuel of Style in-text (author date) format for the bibliography,
which is detailed here: https://www.chicagomanualofstyle.org/tools_citationguide/citation-guide-
2.html.
