The United States and Mexico not only share a border, but also a tumultuous history, an intertwined economy, and a constant displacement of peoples on both sides of the border. Understanding the Mexican Revolution, a key period in modern Mexican history, is critical to comprehending and appreciating our southern neighbor.

A discussion of the varied aspects of the Mexican Revolution will kick off the Fall 2018 Faculty Forum Series. The talk, "Art, Culture, and the Women's Legacy of the Mexican Revolution," will begin at 7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 10, in the Burns Chapel. Dr. Martin Camacho, Dean of the Fain College of Fine Arts; Associate Professor of Art Ann Marie Leimer; and Associate Professor of Spanish Claudia Montoya will lead the multi-disciplinary presentation.

The Revolution took place from 1910 to 1920, fueled by the need for agrarian reform and for a more equitable redistribution of wealth. In its aftermath, the government viewed the arts as a means of creating cultural and social unity, celebrating Mexico's rich and diverse civilizations, and promoting literacy. Minister of Education JosÚ Vasconcelos Calderón, serving under President ┴lvaro Obregón, spearheaded governmental funding and support of the arts that produced a cultural rebirth including the great mural programs of Los Tres Grandes, the Mexican muralists, and many other forms of artistic expression.

The Revolution would have not been possible without the active participation of indigenous peoples as well as brave women who fought side by side with men.

This presentation will sample the music of the Revolution as well its iconography produced by some of the Mexican Masters of the Plastic Arts, along with historical context that emphasizes women's participation and contributions to the Revolutionary cause as military leaders, as financial backers, as spies, and as healers.

Contact Dr. Jonathan Price at jonathan.price@msutexas.edu for more information.