GRAND JUNCTION — The late Mexican painter and political cartoonist Abel Quezada drew a cartoon in the 1950s about his dream of Mexico becoming a world power. He concluded it couldn’t happen.

“Is Abel Quezada’s Impossible Dream Coming True? Mexican Migration, Economics and History Since 1945” is the topic of the 2008 Aspinall guest lecturer Dr. William Beezley Tuesday at 7 p.m. in Liff Auditorium.

Beezley’s lecture will focus on the historical nature of migration, from the Bracero movement, 1942 to 1964, to the present. Beezley will talk about major historical developments, including democratization of the political system and economic recovery led by individual Mexicans since 1982.

Beezley has taught Mexican history for 35 years and is a history professor at the University of Arizona in Tucson.

Beezley was invited by the Wayne Aspinall Foundation to teach a mini-course at Mesa State College from March 31 to April 18.

In addition to the college course, the Aspinall guest lecturers give a free presentation to the public during their stay.

The Aspinall series has featured experts in all aspects of history and political science, said MSC history professor Steve Schulte.

Beezley visits Mexico regularly and is fluent in Spanish. He taught a course at the Colegio de Mexico in Mexico City last fall. He is also director of the Oaxaca Mexico Graduate Field School in Modern Mexican History.

Beezley is author of the upcoming book “Amended Memories and Silent Innuendos: The Popular Sources of Mexican National Identity” from the University of Arizona Press.

He’s currently working on a project filming Mexican fiestas for educational television — a project that takes him into remote areas of Mexico.

The Aspinall Foundation was established in honor of Congressman Wayne N. Aspinall in January 1968. Its programs are intended to educate and inform students and the public as well as promote “participation in good government, wise development and use of natural resources, careful land-use planning and other public affairs.”

The Foundation also provides $20,000 in scholarships to students each year.

Reach Sharon Sullivan at ssullivan@gjfreepress.com.