A History of Hispanic Achievement in America

Patricia Lopez hosts this terrific series highlighting the numerous historical, political, social, and cultural contributions of Hispanic peoples to the development of the United States. Beginning with the arrival of Spain's emissary Christopher Columbus to the New World in 1492, the four-disc set takes viewers through 500 years of Hispanic accomplishments, focusing on explorers such as Cortes, Coronado, and De Soto; politicians Manuel de Montiano, Lorenzo de Zavala, and Dennis Chavez; activist Cesar Chavez; artists and authors including William Carlos Williams, George Santayana, Joan Baez, and Judy Baca; as well as athletes Roberto Clemente and Nancy Lopez. Each of the eight episodes here provide fine historical and social context for the profiled individuals, reinforced by a variety of relevant paintings, photographs, maps, and charts. DVD extras include Spanish subtitles, a teacher's guide, quizzes, maps, historical documents, a timeline, and a photo gallery. An excellent survey of an underrepresented subject, A History of Hispanic Achievement in America is highly recommended. Aud: J, H, C, P. (L. Stevens)