• Lidia's story corresponds with Jose Marti's ideas about the tension between creation and imitation.
• Imitation of European styles and forms
• It is important for the Solis family to be refined and cultured
• Art: Matisse, Gaugin, but few Puerto Rican artists
• Germans are considered civilized and disciplined and hard working, but their penny pinching won't work for the Solis children
• Germanico wishes he were Britanico--clothing and grooming
• Importation of German toys
• Lidia resists European ideas and knowledge--Wants to learn more about the Incans and Aztecs
• Appreciation of US appliances, washing machine, air conditioner, miami windows, television
• Perfume--European is better than American (Avon)
• Higher education--Andres goes to school in the U.S.
• Feelings of loss: demarcated by two houses--Villa Aurora and the new house in the development
• Themes of creation and autonomy:
• Be your own boss

Overview of Puerto Rican History
Taino first numbered 30,000; reduced to about 2000 after Columbus
Spanish colony from 1493 to 1898, when the island became a US colony
Luis Munoz-Marin--Born in 1898-1980
4 4 year terms as elected governor:
1948, 52, 56,60
He ultimately changed his stance from pro-independence to commonwealth status (but wanting the islands to progress under U.S. support)
He served as a senator after his tenure as governor