Puerto Rico: A Living History

To Be a Nationalist: The People Behind the Movement

What did it mean to be a Nationalist in Puerto Rico when independence could make you a target? This episode explores the people behind the movement, including the Cadets of the Republic, the Hijas de la Libertad, workers, students, families, and ordinary Puerto Ricans who risked everything to say the island belonged to its people.

Pedro Albizu Campos - El Maestro

Pedro Albizu Campos, known as El Maestro, was one of the most powerful and controversial voices in Puerto Rico’s independence movement. In this episode, we follow his journey from Ponce to Harvard, from the U.S. Army to the Nationalist Party, and into years of imprisonment and resistance. His life raises a question Puerto Rico still faces today: who has the right to decide the island’s future?

The Treaty That Changed Puerto Rico Forever

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.

Nuyorican Dreams: The Puerto Rican Diaspora to New York

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.

Hurricane Maria: The Aftermath and Recovery of an Island

In this overview of Hurricane Maria's impact on Puerto Rico, we've delved into the catastrophic aftermath of one of the 21st century's most devastating natural disasters. From the immediate and widespread damage to infrastructure, housing, and key economic sectors, to the prolonged humanitarian crisis characterized by utility outages, healthcare system strain, and food and water shortages, the scale of devastation was unprecedented. Critiques of the delayed and inadequate U.S. response highlighted the need for more effective disaster strategies, especially for U.S. territories. The long-term economic and social impacts, including the challenges of gentrification, displacement, and rebuilding efforts, underscored the deep vulnerabilities exposed by the hurricane. However, amidst these challenges, the remarkable resilience of the Puerto Rican people shone through, with community-led initiatives, innovative solutions, and a strong focus on cultural preservation and social cohesion paving the way for recovery.