Oaxaca is a city of some 800,000 people in central sourthern Mexico. Located some 200 miles south of Mexico City, it is the capital of the state by the same name. Oaxaca is a culturally rich city with a long history. It is the home of the Zapotec culture which dates back to the 6th century B.C.

Oaxaca has numerous museums, contemporary art galleries, beautiful churches, and beautiful indigenous art. It is also the location of the archeological ruins at Monte Albán and Mitla, ancient centers of Zapotec culture. This course will examine the impact of global markets and comsumer culture on the city.