Background research helps you identify the who, what, and where of a topic.This is the first step in researching a subject, and discovering the "how" and "why".
Encyclopedias can provide background information and can be used to identify key people, events and dates which can then be used as search terms for finding additional information. Many also provide a jumpstart on your research by listing related readings.
Interested in meeting with a research librarian to toss around ideas and narrow down your research topic? Meet with Jackie, the librarian that specializes in Latin American history! She is more than happy to schedule an appointment to discuss your research.
Scholarly subject specific encyclopedias:
The Cambridge Encyclopedia of Latin America and the Caribbean by 
Historical Dictionary of United States - Latin American Relations by General academic encyclopedias that cover Latin American History topics:
