American History Study Guide

Judith Ortíz Cofer (1952-2016) was a distinguished Puerto Rican author, poet, and essayist whose work often explored themes of cultural identity, assimilation, and the immigrant experience. Born in Hormigueros, Puerto Rico, Cofer moved to the United States with her family when she was a young girl, living in Paterson, New Jersey, before settling in Augusta, Georgia. This bicultural experience deeply influenced her writing, allowing her to serve as a voice for the Latino community in American literature.

Cofer's literary career was marked by her ability to weave personal narratives with broader social and historical contexts. Her notable works include the novel "The Line of the Sun" (1989), the essay collection "Silent Dancing: A Partial Remembrance of a Puerto Rican Childhood" (1990), and the young adult novel "An Island Like You: Stories of the Barrio" (1995). Her poetry collection, "A Love Story Beginning in Spanish" (2005), also received critical acclaim.

Historical and Literary Context for "American History":

"American History," a poignant short story by Judith Ortíz Cofer, is set in the 1960s, a period marked by significant social and political upheaval in the United States. The story takes place on the day President John F. Kennedy was assassinated, November 22, 1963, a moment that left an indelible mark on American consciousness. This era was also characterized by the Civil Rights Movement, which sought to end racial segregation and discrimination against African Americans.

In literary terms, the 1960s and 1970s saw the rise of multiculturalism and ethnic literature in the United States, with writers from various backgrounds contributing to a more inclusive American literary canon. Cofer’s "American History" fits within this context as it addresses themes of cultural assimilation, racial prejudice, and the immigrant experience through the eyes of a young Puerto Rican girl named Elena.

The story’s exploration of personal and historical events reflects the broader movement in American literature to include diverse voices and perspectives. Cofer's work, including “American History,” is celebrated for its lyrical prose and its ability to convey the complexities of navigating multiple cultural identities.

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