Lecture: The Enduring Legacies of Old Spanish Law and Water Rights in the American SW – April 23, 7 pm

Since the mid-1800s, two international treaties have obliged the United States to protect the property rights of Mexicans and Native Americans living in a region of North America that once belonged to Mexico. The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo and the Gadsden Purchase provide important constitutional guarantees that often have proven difficult to fulfill. Historian Michael Brescia will explain the difficult historical and legal issues involved in certain disputes over natural resources throughout the American Southwest, while interspersing stories from his archival and field research that highlight the intimate connections between individuals, their communities, and the enduring impact of Spanish colonialism and U.S. expansionism on North America.

This lecture will be presented ONLY via Zoom. PLEASE REGISTER EARLY! Registration closes at 6 pm on the day of the lecture, as it may take close to an hour for registrants to receive their confirmation email with the Zoom link.

Cancellation Policy:  Cancellations received more than 24 hours in advance will receive a refund minus a small transaction fee.  Cancellations received less than 24 hours in advance will not receive a refund.