Research Guides: HIST 3362: Mexican American History: Reference

Getting Started: Reference

At the beginning of a research project we recommend using Reference databases and Reference books. They are an excellent resource for getting a big picture overview of a subject, getting factual information, finding additional sources, and more!

Some common Reference materials are:

Dictionaries: provide brief descriptions of terms related to subjects
Encyclopedias: an authoritative resource containing factual details and providing a broad overview of a subject
Handbooks: provide factual information on a subject or instructions on how to perform a task
Almanacs: an annual publication containing important dates and statistical information
Bibliographies: contain lists of sources by a specific author or on a particular topic. Three types of bibliographies are Analytical, Enumerative, and Annontated

Use U-Search or RamCat on the Library's homepage to find more!

Reference Databases

Credo Reference This link opens in a new window
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Provides access to hundreds of reference resources covering every major subject.
Gale eBooks This link opens in a new window
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Contains topic overview pages, subject encyclopedias, dictionaries, handbooks, and other reference resources.

Encyclopedias

The Oxford Encyclopedia of Latinos and Latinas in the United States by Suzanne Oboler (Editor); Deena J. González (Editor); Deena J. González (Editor)
Click title for eBook. Encyclopedia draws together the diverse historical and contemporary experiences in the United States of Latinos and Latinas from Mexico, Puerto Rico, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Central America, South America, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East

Also available in the library:
Location: Second Floor Stacks
Call Number: E184.S75 O97 2005
Encyclopedia of Latin American History and Culture by Jay Kinsbruner (Editor)
Provides a comprehensive, multidisciplinary view of Latin American history and culture from prehistoric times to the present. Covers cultural issues and includes numerous biographical profiles of important figures in politics, letters and the arts.
Encyclopedia of Mexico: History, Society & Culture by Michael S. Werner (Editor)
Covers topics regarding Mexican culture and ethnicities, history, notable people, folklore, and more. Includes entries relevant to Mexican American history.
Encyclopedia of the Mexican American Civil Rights Movement by Margo Gutiérrez; Matt S. Meier
Contains alphabetically arranged entries that provide information on Mexican Americans' struggle for civil rights and equality.

Location: Second Floor Stacks
Call Number: E184.M5 M458 2000
Hispanic Civil Rights Series by F. Arturo Rosales
Dictionary of Latino Civil Rights History.
Tejano leadership in Mexican and Revolutionary Texas by Jesús F. de la Teja
Examines the lives, careers, and influence of many Tejano leaders who were active and influential in the formation, political and military leadership, and economic development of Texas.

Also available in the library:
Location: Second Floor Stacks
Call Number: F395.M5 T453 2010

Dictionaries

Dictionary of Mexican American History by Matt S. Meier; Feliciano Rivera
Hispanic Civil Rights Series by F. Arturo Rosales
Dictionary of Latino Civil Rights History.

Ask a Librarian

Need research assistance? One-on-one help is available via the Library’s Virtual Reference Room in Blackboard or phone (325-486-6534) during the following hours:

Monday-Thursday: 9 a.m. – 7 p.m.
Friday: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m.
Saturday: 2 – 6 p.m.
Sunday: 1 – 5 p.m.

You can also contact us via

email or by posting on the Ask a Librarian Discussion Board in Blackboard.
Messages sent outside of normal service hours will be answered the next day the library is open (check Library Hours of Operation for current schedule).