1. Hispanic American Culture

2. History (Mexican-Americans)
1845: Texas became part of US
1848:Mexican-American War: 80% of Mexicans living in region taken from Mexico became US citizens
Late 1800s: political turmoil in Mexico caused people to leave
1920’s-50’s: jobs in US lured Mexicans (roaring 20’s, World War II)
Today: economic/political problems in Mexico; deflation of the peso

3. History (Puerto Ricans)
1898: PR taken by US from Spain as a result of the US winning the Spanish American War
1917: Jones Act gave Puerto Ricans citizenship

4. History (Cubans)
1959: Fidel Castro took over and created a communist government
Most wealthy Cubans fled to the US (Miami)

5. Location and Population
Mexican Americans
31 million; California, Texas
Puerto Ricans
4.6 million/ New York City
Cubans
1.8 million/Miami

6. Religion
Roman Catholic
Protestant

7. Celebrations/Holidays
Cinco de Mayo (5th of May)
Mexican defeat of the French
Day of the Dead
Day of remembering ancestors who have died
November 2nd
Mexican Independence Day
September 16th
Independence from Spain
Day of the Dead Video
Cinco de Mayo Video

8. Social Problems Higher drop-out rate (language barrier)
21 % (8% average of other races)
Discrimination (housing and employment)
Unemployment (twice as high as whites)
Poverty
Puerto Ricans highest
Cubans lowest