This course will examine the complex and often conflict-ridden relationship between the United States and Mexico. The historical, cultural, political and economic dimensions of that relationship will be examined with particular attention to how they continue to influence politics, culture, and identity within each society as well as in their relations with the other. We will also analyze the borderlands between each country as a cultural world in itself. This class is being taught in tandem with ENLT 293 Chicana Literature. Previous or current enrollment in ENLT 283 is required.