Evaluate the impact of “indigenismo” and nativism in Latin America in the period from 1865 to 1929.

Candidates are required to address “indigenismo” and nativism and appraise their impact on Latin America. Any relevant Latin American region or country/countries will be accepted, and possible choices could be Peru or Mexico. Candidates may choose to approach the question by considering Latin America as a whole.

Indicative content

• “Indigenismo” has a long history in Latin America, but became much stronger in the last half of the 19th century and in the early 20th century.
• “Indigenismo” contributed to new intellectual perspectives that put the indigenous people at the centre of discussion, for example, Mariategui in Peru and/or Vasconcelos in Mexico.
• Responses could focus on land reform, living conditions, income, education, political participation and the cultural experience of indigenous peoples. Often, the experiences of the indigenous peoples were romanticized in literature and art.
• Candidates might indicate that “indigenismo” was paternalistic and was used by the dominant culture to support their own agendas and to control the indigenous population.
• Nativism emerged most strongly in the early 20th century in Brazil, Argentina, Chile and Peru in response to large immigrant populations from Germany, Italy and Japan who did not assimilate.

The above material is an indication of what candidates may elect to write about in their responses. However, the list is not exhaustive and no set answer is required.

Examiners are reminded of the need to apply the markbands that provide the “best fit” to the responses given by candidates and to award credit wherever it is possible to do so.

[20 marks]