Paulina Jaramillo Amazon Category:  History Publisher: CreateSpace ISBN-10:  1451558597 Type: Non-Fiction Pages: 138 Copyright: April 2011 ISBN-13: 9781451558593 "The American Southwest: Pride~Prejudice~Perseverance" provides an excellent overview of the historical development of the Southwest from the time of the Ancient Native Americans to the present and renders a clear perspective on immigration and the participation of Latinos in the educational system. It contains maps, graphs, a glossary and a well-documented bibliography. The book appeals to educators, students and the general public. The American Southwest is a colorful tapestry woven with the various dialects, customs, cultures and architecture of the people who have dwealt in it for thousands of years. Section One provides an overview of the early inhabitants. Sections Two and Three focus on the struggles, truimphs and contributions of immigrants from Mexico. Section Four looks at the immigration issue (past and present) and the changing demographics. Section Five examines the participation of Latinos in education and the attainment gap. The book includes graphs, a glossary and a well-documented bibliography and appeals to educators, students, and the general public. The American Southwest has been endorsed by Dr. Tom Rivera, Associate Dean, Undergraduate Studies (CSUSB) and by Cesar Caballero, Dean of the University Library (CSUSB).    Excerpt "The purpose of education goes far beyond the attainment of knowledge. Education in its truest sense equips us to form intelligent opinions and communicate them to others in a respectful manner. Education opens the door to creativity and critical thinking: it enables and empowers us to become productive citizens that can effect positive change within us and in the world beyond us."

History of the American Southwest
"Paulina presents a concise, lively, and readable account of the history of the American Southwest as she traces the development of this rich and culturally diverse region, from its first inhabitants, whose imprint is still felt, up to the present. She weaves a compelling tale of truimphs, setbacks, and disappointments that Latinos in the Southwest have experienced as they fought for civil rights and equality. Though confronted with discrimination and other injustices, she shows, Latinos pushed forward and made the best of circumstances, relying on family, faith, and community for support and inspiration. She concludes with a chapter on Latino education, offering statistics and commentary on the achievement gap that exists.

The American Southwest: Pride~Prejudice~Perseverance is an excellent resource for those who seek a better understanding of the historical events that shaped the region's cultures, communities, and peoples."

Reviewed by: Dr. TOM RIVERA, Associate Dean, Undergraduate Studies, California State University, San Bernardino