In this episode of Puerto Rico: A Living History, we explore the profound impact of the Treaty of Paris (1898) on Puerto Rico, a pivotal moment that marked the island’s transfer from Spanish to U.S. control without the consent of its people. We unpack the political, cultural, and economic disruptions that followed, contrasting Puerto Rico's experience with those of Cuba and the Philippines. Additionally, we discuss Spain’s modern proposal for "Nacionalidad Reparativa" (reparative citizenship), a potential step toward addressing the historical injustices caused by the treaty. Join us as we reflect on Puerto Rico’s colonial past, its unresolved political status, and what reclaiming Spanish citizenship could mean for its future.

In this episode of "Puerto Rico: A Living History," we delve into the journey of the Puerto Rican diaspora and its profound impacts on both New York City and Puerto Rico. From the early 20th-century migrations accelerated by the Jones-Shafroth Act to the transformative Great Migration during the mid-20th century, Puerto Ricans have significantly shaped New York's cultural, social, and economic landscape. Despite facing numerous challenges, including language barriers, economic hardships, and discrimination, the resilient Puerto Rican community established vibrant neighborhoods, cultural traditions, and support networks. We explore their contributions to music, labor, and political activism, highlighting the enduring connections between the island and the city, and the ongoing struggles and achievements of this dynamic community.

In this episode of "Puerto Rico a Living 'History'", we explore the historical and sociopolitical landscape of Puerto Rico during the late 1940s, focusing on the enactment and impact of the Gag Law, or "La Ley de Mordaza." This controversial law, aimed at suppressing nationalist activities and the display of the Puerto Rican flag, reveals the deep political tensions on the island. We delve into the law's severe restrictions on free speech and civil liberties, its broad application leading to mass arrests and the suppression of the nationalist movement. The episode also examines the law's broader societal impact, creating a pervasive atmosphere of fear and censorship, and concludes with the eventual repeal of the law in 1957, considering its long-lasting effects on Puerto Rican society and the enduring lessons about the protection of civil liberties.

In this enlightening episode of "Puerto Rico: A Living History," we take a deep dive into the Foraker Act of 1900, a pivotal piece of legislation that significantly shaped Puerto Rico's political and cultural landscape. We explore the backdrop of this act, set in the aftermath of the Spanish-American War, and how it marked a new era under the American flag for Puerto Rico. Delving into the intricate details of the Act, we examine its political and economic implications, the introduction of the Official Language Act, and the complex reactions it elicited among Puerto Ricans. The episode also sheds light on the factors leading to the Act's eventual replacement by the Jones-Shafroth Act of 1917. Join me as we unravel this crucial chapter in Puerto Rico's history.

In this gripping episode of "Puerto Rico: A Living History," we explore the profound impacts of Operation Portrex on the serene island of Vieques. This story unfolds the transformation of Vieques from a natural paradise, known for its Bioluminescent Bay and tranquil beaches, into a battleground for one of the largest U.S. military exercises. We delve into the historical context of Operation Portrex, involving around 80,000 personnel, and how it turned Vieques into a strategic military zone for over six decades. The narrative takes you through the environmental and cultural upheaval, the psychological toll on the islanders, and the resilient protests that eventually led to the cessation of military activities. Join me as we uncover this critical chapter of Puerto Rican history, highlighting the community's endurance against a backdrop of military occupation and environmental injustice.

In this episode of "Puerto Rico: A Living History," we take a riveting journey back to the late 15th century to explore the profound transformations that reshaped Puerto Rico. We start with the vibrant world of the Taíno people, delving into their rich culture, spiritual beliefs, and the societal structures that defined their communities. As we navigate through the times, we encounter the pivotal moment of 1493 - the arrival of Christopher Columbus and the Spanish conquistadors. This episode vividly portrays the collision of two worlds, examining how this encounter initiated a tumultuous period marked by cultural upheavals, the brutal impacts of colonization, and the tragic decimation of the Taíno population due to introduced diseases and oppressive regimes. Join me as we unravel the layers of Puerto Rico's complex history, shedding light on the birth of a unique culture and the enduring spirit of an island that has weathered centuries of change.

In this episode of "Puerto Rico: A Living History," titled "Under Surveillance: The Tale of Las Carpetas" we explore the extensive surveillance program in Puerto Rico, where citizens were covertly monitored by the FBI and local police. We delve into the contents of these dossiers, their profound impact on individuals' lives, and the culture of fear and mistrust they fostered. The episode concludes by discussing the public revelation of these practices, the legal and political responses, and the lasting legacy of this dark chapter in Puerto Rican history.

The latest episode of "Puerto Rico: A Living History," titled "Silent Echoes: The Story of Sterilization in Puerto Rico," delves into the harrowing history of forced sterilization of Puerto Rican women. It explores the eugenic policies of the 20th century that led to this practice and its profound impact on Puerto Rican society, including the alteration of family structures and deep-seated trust issues with the U.S. government. The episode also discusses the broader implications of these policies on women's rights and the importance of informed consent in medical practices.

In this episode of "Puerto Rico: A Living Legend", we delve into the Merchant Marine Act of 1920, known as the Jones Act, and its profound impact on Puerto Rico's economy. We explore the historical context of the law, dissect how it affects the cost of living and doing business on the island, and consider the potential economic liberation that could come with its repeal. Join us as we navigate the troubled waters of this century-old legislation and its role in shaping Puerto Rico's present and future economic landscape.

Imagine a time when Puerto Rico, vibrant and lush, was transformed into a vast, monotonous sea of sugarcane. The early twentieth century saw the United States' interests mold the island's landscape and economy, forever changing its course. This episode, titled 'The Bitter History of Sugar Cane Monoculture in Puerto Rico', delves into this transformative period. We'll explore how this small island, once teeming with diverse crops, succumbed to the pressure of sugar cane monoculture, and its lingering effects today. Join us as we unfold how an insatiable sweet tooth led to a bitter reality for Puerto Rico. From a vibrant tapestry of diverse crops to a single, all-consuming green wave of sugarcane, the island's story is a testament to the power of global economic forces. Stay tuned, as we peel back the layers of Puerto Rico's history, one sugarcane stalk at a time.