Annotation Sample

Guillen, M. F. (2004). MODERNISM WITHOUT MODERNITY: The Rise of Modernist Architecture in Mexico, Brazil, and Argentina, 1890-1940. Latin American Research Review, 39(2), 6-34. 

In this text , Mauro Guilen compares and contrasts the rise of modernist architecture in Mexico Brazil and Argentina. The text explores each case individually, analyzing the reasons why this architectural style was able to jump across the atlantic ocean just a few years after it gained ground in Europe. These are important questions to answer, as modernism embraced futuristic ideals and materials, and these three countries at the time were considered to be relatively backwards in their developments. Guillen looks at the roots and rise of modernist architecture in Europe, and then expands his scope to these 3 Latin American countries. Through serious and scholar prose, Guillen notes the important role of the Mexican revolution and the professionalization of architects in the rise of modernist architecture in Mexico. In the years following the revolution, the new government tried to use modernist architecture to comply with their agenda to turn Mexico into a first -world country. It was with that governmental approval that the modernist style began to be adopted throughout the country, even when Mexico lacked the material resources (glass and steel) for the high demand. The architects then began to alter modernist architecture by injecting their country’s culture, sometimes completely dismissing some of the main pillars of the style. After some years, modernism in Mexico became a different style, one that was adopted to the traditions and likes of the Mexican public. 
As the author slowly answers the central question - how can countries that lack modern economies and industries adopt a progressive style of architecture in such a short time? - his tone changes from skeptical to accepting (although always staying true to his academic style). The paper is great to understand the main reasons why and how Mexico adopted a foreign architectural style to further advance its international image.