Los Estados Unidos: Una lección cultural (Para ir con Unidad 1, Lección 1)

Many of the southern states have a connection to Hispanic History.  The United States wanted California, so as to become a “continental empire” with harbors on the Pacific and the Atlantic. (PBS.org)  But to get California, the U.S. fought Mexico in 1846 and 1847, gaining California, along with all the states in-between: Nevada, Arizona, New Mexico and Colorado.

But, we’re more interested in Texas and Florida.  Before Texas was its own country, it was part of Spain from 1690 to Also, it was part of Mexico from 1821 to (Wikipedia)  Before Florida was part of the U.S, it was part of Spain from and again from 1783 to (Wikipedia)

These states all contribute wonderful things to our nation.  The U.S. celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month from September 15 to October 15. Today, over 40 million Hispanics in the U.S. trace their roots to more than 20 countries.

-  La Villita (The Little Village) is San Antonio’s oldest neighborhood. It hosts many events of the 10-day “Fiesta San Antonio”.

“Fiesta San Antonio” honors the heroes of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto.

-  Calle Ocho (8 th Street) is in Little Havana, in Miami. It has a high Cuban population, as seen by the Cuban restaurants, shops, cafés, etc. Also, the Freedom Tower is in this area, which is the home of the Cuban American Museum.

Another aspect of Cuban culture in Miami is the artwork of Xavier Cortada.  Many of his paintings represent his Cuban American ethnicity. “Music,” painted in 2005

And, Miami is also home to “Los premios juventud” (The Youth Awards).  Somewhat a Latin version of “Teen Choice Awards,” teens vote for their favorite stars in music, film and sports. This awards show is broadcasted on Spanish-language television, like Univisión.