On September 15, 2021, five of the seven Central American Republics will celebrate the 200th anniversary of their independence (bicentenario) from the Spanish Crown in 1821. The process of political emancipation was complex and had multiple effects for the historical development of this cultural and ethnic enormous heterogeneous region, the multidimensionality of the process requires a profound and interdisciplinary review.

Therefore, researchers have emphasized a profound change of perspective. New and accessible archival sources as well as interdisciplinary research methods, demand a critical reflection on the traditional historiography of the region. Recently, Global History studies have contributed to our better understanding of the Central American region which is in the center of this academic encounter.

This colloquium brings together a group of international scholars, including historians, anthropologists, and political scientists, to reflect on the global and transnational perspectives of the independence of Central America in 1821 and its impact until today. This means including Central American visions, motivations, and perspectives in the face of global changes, transcending into the 21st century. Above all, the event seeks to increase knowledge about the history of Latin America in general and Central America in particular in Austria.

For more information on upcoming events, check the list with a detailed program below.

Participation Opportunities

Due to the Covid-19 pandemic, the colloquium is organized as hybrid event. It will be possible for the invited participants to attend on-site (only events organized at the University of Graz) as well as online (both, University of Vienna and University of Graz). Filling out the registration form to participate is required - you can find it above.

The amount of people that can participate on-site is limited due to Covid-19 restrictions. Therefore we cannot guarantee a place for everyone during registration. However, online links for all three days will be included. If you have received an invitation to our on-site events, we kindly recommend you to check out the information provided by the Federal Ministry of Social Affairs, Health, Care and Consumer Protection, as well as the information provided on the website of the University of Graz.

Event Management

Organized by the Forschungsschwerpunkt Globalgeschichte (FSP Global History of the University of Vienna), the Center for Inter-American Studies (University of Graz) and the Department of Romance Studies (University of Vienna).

CONCEPT AND COORDINATION
Laurin Blecha (FSP Global History, University of Vienna)
Christian Cwik (Center for Inter-American Studies, University of Graz)
Jörg Türschmann (Department of Romance Studies, University of Vienna)

ACADEMIC BOARD
Rina Cáceres Gómez (Universidad de Costa Rica)
Sergio Guerra Vilaboy (Universidad de La Habana)
Werner Mackenbach (Universidad de Costa Rica)

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