Ruth Oropeza

Areas of Specialization

Disease and Epidemics, Modern Spain, Medicine, and History of Animals

Education

Ph.D., The University of Arizona
M.A., The University of Arizona
B.A., San Jose State University

Academic Interests & Research Narrative

My research interests focus on the relationship between disease management and state building in nineteenth century Spain. My dissertation, “The Healing Nation: Hygiene, Sanitation, and the Public Health Enterprise in Spain, 1845-1920,” traced the role of the Dirección General de Beneficencia y Sanidad in crafting a sanitation system in Spain. My particular interest was in how cholera outbreaks of pandemic proportions disrupt social order and at times create an opportunity for radical change. I was intrigued by questions of access and how this in turn also began to define citizenship.
I am also interested in the history of medicine and animals.

Why I chose Baylor

I chose Baylor because my research interests deal with important questions of access, I was deeply invested in finding a place where education could go beyond the classroom. Baylor’s mission of “integrating academic excellence and Christian commitment within a caring community” brings together what I value and prioritize as an instructor.

Selected Publications

Dissertation Title: The Healing Nation: Hygiene, Sanitation, and the Public Health Enterprise in Spain, 1845-1920

Selected Acivities

Grants

Fulbright Scholar - Spain 2017-2018