Mexican American Cultural Identity

Mexican American Cultural Identity
To be or not to be, is a question that many may ask themselves. People are made into individuals
due to their cultural backgrounds and thus form what is known as cultural identity, when one
establishes their identity based on traditions such as music, food, fashion, language and/or religion
("Common Ground"). Growing up Mexican–American was like living in two different worlds, these
worlds shaped the person I am today. It was the culture and beliefs that helped me create my cultural
identity. I may even say that I got the best of both worlds. Being of Mexican heritage and being born
in America had its advantages and disadvantages in society. Cultural identity has molded the way
people are today within different time periods, while many factors play a part in one's life everyone
has had an unconventional experience expressing and/or finding their cultural identity.
The start of the 1960's was history for chicanos, known as The Mexican American Civil Rights
movement. These were the years Mexican Americans fought for their rights to restoring their land,
to farm worker equity, amending education, to political and voting rights. Going back in time to the
60's, many Mexican Americans were demanding for their land back due to the 1848 Treaty of
Guadalupe Hidalgo which terminated the Mexican American War. But Mexican Americans believed
that the land should be granted to them as it is part of their origin home ground known as the Aztlán
("Chicano! A History Of The Mexican American
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Mexican American Culture
Every culture has their own unique and distinguishing characteristics. One's cultural identity defines
who they are as an individual, group, and community. Their cultural identity may be reflected in
numerous ways such as: language, communication styles, religion, beliefs, values, clothing, or other
types of aesthetic markers. Cultural identity is formed by many of these traits but is not limited to
these specifically. This essay will provide detailed information on Mexican Americans, and their
ancestry and heritage. I will also explain about this cultures central beliefs and values, while
incorporating information on Mexican Americans, cultural patterns, cultural identity, and their
cultures communication characteristics and styles. Mexican Americans were decedents of Mexico,
or "Estados Unidos Mexicanos" as their culture would say. Mexico is bordered by the "United States
to the north, the Gulf of Mexico to the east, Guatemala, Belize, and the Caribbean Sea to the
southeast, and the Pacific to the south and west" (Englekirk & Marin, 2014). In this area, the
population consist of 75 million people between these locations. According to Englekirk and Marin
(2014) Mexico's earliest occupants were hunters from Asia. Prior to the 16th century civilizations
such as Mayan, Aztec, Toltec, and more, built societies amongst themselves in these areas. In 1951
Hernan Cortes conquered this area, thus establishing Mexico and their culture. Three groups were
mixed to form

Mexican Americans During Ww2
The outbreak of World War II, led to many Mexican Americans to answer the call and join the U.S.
armed forces. Many Mexican Americans in the Southwestern states joined to social and economic
reasons, while others took advantage of wartime legislation that promised them citizenship in
exchange for service (Meier and Ribera, 160). Mexican Americans, primarily fought in combat
divisions, which many earned Medal of Honor, and there were less racial tensions between
Mexicans and Anglos, due to the army ranking system. Mexicans and Anglos, tossed aside their
racial views among each other and rather coordinated with each other in the war to accomplish their
primary goals. Mexican Americans came home, developing self–esteem and confidence to acquire

Mexican American Family In The Mexican Family
El cambio es algo bueno. That means change is a good thing and I have a proposal that involves
change for families. I believe that Mexican families deserve a shot to live in America, even if they
are illegal immigrants. The plan involves a way where a United States' family and a family from
Mexico can both benefit from each other. The three ways that a U.S. family and a Mexican family
can benefit from each other are: sharing different foods, learning new languages, and learning new
life skills. While these exchanges are going, the Mexican family earns free citizenship as well. This
is a government funded program. The families will have to pay for their own food and housing, but
the housing is supplied by the government for a low price. The housing fee pays for a limited, but
reasonable, amount of water and electricity.
No one likes to eat the same type of food every day. Mexican food is one of the most popular types
of food eaten in the United States. The Mexican families that come over to get their citizenship can
run Mexican restaurants during shifts throughout the day and night. The restaurants will be open 24
hours a day at places like hospitals, hotels, and colleges. They will make simple kinds of foods like:
tacos, enchiladas, and quesadillas. The food will be sold for a cheaper price than usual, but the
quality of the food will still be well and enjoyable. This will be benefiting the Americans who need a
quality lunch for cheap. This will also benefit the Mexicans

Mexican American Community
Xa'Quasha Bass
5 / 5 / 2017
Professor Metcalfe
History 10–10:50 Mexican American Community
During my visit to the department of foreign languages I found that. The Mexican American
population is a standout amongst the most critical minority . bunches in the country, yet chroniclers
and students of history have been careless in recording. its improvement. The Mexican American
people group in Houston, Texas, has been creating for one hundred years and today may well
number upwards of five hundred thousand individuals. These materials incorporate the papers of
conspicuous Mexican American Houstonians, Mexican American families, and also nearby Chicano
associations and foundations.

Mexican American Freedom Movement
When America entered WWII Mexican American were concern about if the New Deal relief would
bolster the standard of living. The war brought new opportunities for them and the war made
Mexicans Americans hopeful about their future. Thanks to the A. Philip Randolph's march, it
secured employment opportunities for African Americans in defense industries. To show loyalty by
fully participating in the war effort and thousands of Mexican Americans enrolled into the armed
forces after the Japanese attacked the pearl harbor in 1941 and others left for high paying jobs in
defense industries. Due to so many Mexican Americans leaving to go to war it brought unexpected
changes to their lives. The shortage of worker led to an emergency training programs ... Show more
content on Helpwriting.net ...
border patrol to break unionizing campaigns. Galarza new how to deal with the scourge of eager and
hungry bracero and mojado workers. Thanks to Ernesto Galarza, César Chavez and Dolores Huerta
took up the torch borne by Ernesto Galarza and transformed their passion for social justice on behalf
of American farmworkers into a political movement. The activities of many Mexican American
women like, hope Schecter Mendoza, Maria Duran, and Virginia Muzquiz demanded great respect
and illustrate the key role played by women in the Mexican American freedom movement. The
environment felt after the war shaped the political of social change for Mexican Americans. All the
racism at home and overseas and the sacrifices they mad during the war set the stage for a new era
in Mexican American civil rights. The National Association of Mexican Americans fought for
Mexican American equality through the courts but where always pushed back by the domestic Red
Scare. By 1954 million of Mexican had cross the border illegally and faced many competitions.
They only had three options they had to work for the same low wages as the Mexican aliens, join the
welfare roles, or to seek work elsewhere. People blamed the illegal Mexicans for the rise in crime
disease and other social ills. Mexican American organizational leaders united to oppose the bracero
program and when national concerns about undocumented works rose, they supported immigration
controls. The Red Scare try to disrupt the organizing of Mexican American. Functioning under
Operation Wetback and Operation Terror, U.S. Immigration, Border, and Customs agencies
conducted search and seizure campaigns and committed innumerable human and civil rights
violations. The Mexican American civil right movement that emerged had very different leadership
with

The American And Mexican American Organizations
All racial groups have been discriminated against in one form or another, but an extreme example of
this is with the Mexican and Mexican American citizens in the United States of America. This group
of people have seen almost every form of discrimination to not being allowed in schools, to not
being appointed fair and civil court cases. In order to stop the unequal treatment the Mexican
American population formed LULAC, the League of United Latin American Citizens. LULAC has
worked throughout the years to stop discrimination against their people. They have used many
tactics and had many well educated people represent them. These tactics are vital and without them
the group would cease to make any progress or even exist.
February 27, 1929 is the day three Mexican–American organizations came together as one mighty
group, in task with eliminating latino discrimination. The first and oldest of these groups was the
The Knights of America of San Antonio, they mostly consisted of middle class Mexican–American
businessmen and mainly focused on educating their members about their rights as American
citizens. The next oldest group that partook in this merge was The Sons of America of Corpus
Christi which was founded by 37 men in 1921. The Sons of America's main goal was to "influence
in all fields of social, economic, and political action in order to realize the greatest enjoyment
possible of all the rights and privileges and prerogatives extended by the American Constitution"

Reflection Of Mexican American History
In 1846 the United States and Mexican War began, and from this point on will change numerous
amount of people's lives. The treaty of Guadalupe brings the Mexican war to an end in 1848, and
thousands of Mexicans ended up living on American soil. Since Americans won the war,
consequently the Mexicans still resided in the united states until further laws excluded them from
the country. Eventually, Americans migrated to move West into the recently acquired land from the
Mexican and American war, including land that is owned by Mexican Families. Reflecting of the
history of our country it makes America look greedy and power hungry at the time. In 1942, The
United States entered world war II, and since majority of American men went to the battle

Mexican Americans Negative Effects
The experience of Mexican Americans has been a lifetime of conquest fueled by their historical
trauma and underrepresentation that continues to plague the Mexican American community to this
present day and most likely still be hundreds of years later. This experience shaped by the defeat of
Mexico and the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo, where while the terms of treaty theoretically
protected Mexican Americans, in practice the Mexican Americans had no protections. This prejudice
and discrimination from something that should have been protected by the agreement lead to the
story of the La Alianza started by Reies Tijerina that started a new fight for the rights that belong to
them.
The effects of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo have a long–lasting impact on Mexican Americans
and Mexican population, in Mexico, it brought back the idea that Mexico would have been better off
under Spanish rule and that a monarchy is ideally suited for Mexico, this brought forth decades of
instability in Mexico (Timothy 184). Consequently, this shows the falling back into a monarchist or
authoritarian government when a country and its peoples destroyed, more modern examples are of
Germany after World War I. Comparatively the conditions for Mexican Americans were not that
better, as mention before while the treaty politically protected, it did not have any way to stymied
the racism and discrimination that became directed at them. Showing that the law does not mean
much if not enforced because then at

American And Mexican American Culture
Mexican American
Being a Latina born in America and growing up here, I was taught celebrating American culture
like, Memorial, independence and Labor Day, with the explosion of bright colorful fireworks, the
smell of fire when turning on the grill and the best part; no school! Also celebrating Christmas and
new year's the American way, going to church, eating, and opening presents on Christmas day. It
wasn't until 4 years ago I went to Mexico and realized there's more to my own rooted culture and
how lucky I am to have both the American and Mexican culture in my life realizing the generation
of Mexican Americans are forming their own culture with both lifestyles. One of the holidays I
celebrated in Mexico was the day of the dead, or as called in Spanish "El Dia de Los Muertos",
which could be considered as Halloween in the America. It is first not celebrated only one day
which is October 31st on Halloween. It is celebrated October 31st through November 1st, there is no
running towards the neighborhood and ringing doorbells for candy, not even dressing up as a
princess or your favorite super hero. Four years ago, I was 13, you could say I was disappointed I
didn't get to dress up. I was in confusion and upset that they were missing out on dressing up and
getting free candy. The next day my mom told me I would be able to dress up, but not in a costume,
in a Mexican traditional dress with bright colors, my hair in a crowned braid and my face painted as
a skull. I was

Mexican American And Mexican Americans Essay
Introduction
One of the largest Hispanic–origin population in the United states are Mexicans (Gonzales–Barrera
& Lopez, 2013). Mexican American's are considered minorities in the United States. There are many
reason why I am choosing to explore Mexican Americans for this paper. As a minority myself, I can
relate to some of the struggles that Mexican American's may face. However, there are some things
that I will never relate to or know the personal aspect of the Mexican culture. Just like any other
population, Mexican Americans have their own culture, values, and challenges.
Strengths
Mexican Americans find their strength through their culture, family, relationships and networks.
Mexican Americans have strengths with their extended family. "Mexican American families
frequently function within extended family networks that include godparents and members of other
families" (Miley, M., & L., 2013). There is more advantage when you have more network with
extended family and other families. It essentially means a larger support system. "One of the major
strengths of Mexican American families is a quantitative rather than a qualitative difference from
other ethnic groups" (Miley, M., & L., 2013). Some people may not realize that Mexican Americans
tend to stick together and support each other because it is a part of their cultural background. Just
like religion is a part of Mexican American's cultural background as well. Most of the time Mexican
American's share similar spiritual

Mexican American Journey
The Journey of a Mexican–American Feeling different isn't necessarily something uncommon to
me, especially growing up as a Mexican–American living in the United States. It's interesting
because you would think I'd feel like I belonged in America. After all, I was born in America. Just
like Richard Rodriguez mentions in his chapter "Asians" from the book "Days of Obligation, "I
didn't like America..." (Rodriguez 172), until I started school and just like him "...I became
Americanized" (Rodriguez 172). Like Rodriguez implies, the school system in America ensures that
students learn about America and the language which inevitably Americanizes them. With that being
said coming to this point, where I can say I am American was a journey of its own. I often find
myself struggling to maintain my roots while still being American. Rodriguez mentions early on in
his chapter, "The child of immigrant parents is supposed to perch on a hyphen, taking only the dose
of America he needs to advance in America" (Rodriguez 161). In other words, the child of
immigrant parents are neither really Mexican nor American, they're just somewhere in the middle or
as Rodriguez states they're on the hyphen. It's difficult to try to maintain your culture while still
being "American" enough to succeed. As a Mexican–American, if you're too "American", you lose a
part of you and your culture. On the other hand, if you're too "Mexican", you will never find success
in America. Now the struggle is left

Mexican American Women
In the early 1940s, America was entering the second world war, and the female community was
reaching new heights in the labor force. Millions of hard–working women filled men's positions as
men joined the military, operating complex machinery in factories, farms, and on the road. During
this time, the opportunities and need for labor in the United States opened occupational
opportunities for Mexican immigrants. Some Mexican families settled in the county of Los Angeles,
making a home for their future generations. Many second generation, Mexican American youth,
more specifically those known as zoot suiters and pachuco(a)s, refused to, "abide by the norms of
segregation," creating a new, rebellious identity that defied all social expectation, (Escobedo 136).
The pachuca women of World War II challenged societies labels and their communities traditions,
creating their own individual, outrageous and flamboyant ideas of beauty and lifestyle. These
actions took Anglo and Mexican immigrant communities by shock. Because of the unfamiliarity of
the pachuca lifestyle, they both responded negatively, each accusing the other for their outlandish
behavior.
The expectations for the second generation Mexican American female were high. Their families not
only expressed the importance of sticking to their traditions and cultures, but they also relied on
their future generations to maintain a good name and reputation for the Mexican immigrant
community. The young Mexican American women,

Essay On Mexican American History
Mexican–American history is overwhelmed with rich culture and vast experiences. The struggles
and challenges this diverse group of people possessed throughout time to bring about change prove
important to the history of the world in many aspects and regards. Whether or not to teach Mexican–
American history in classrooms throughout the United States is a hot topic of debate. However, to
forget about an entire race and culture of a people is to sweep much larger issues under the rug such
as racial divide. It is not only morally wrong to do such a thing, but also impractical to ignore an
entire group of people. Doing so leaves room to breed uncomfortable ignorance throughout the
population about Mexican–Americans. Ones opposed to the idea of

Mexicans, Chicanos, Mexican Americans
Mexicans, Chicanos, Mexican–Americans, Indigenous, and more are just a few of the terms used to
refer to people of Mexican descent. Many Hispanics attempt to enter the United States in search of a
better life and to have an enjoyable way of life. However, living in constant fear of being deported
and consistently being judged simply because of one's color, or the inability to communicate in
English; that does not sound like the American dream. Typically, people have real reasons to
emigrate to the United States, and it is in great part due to necessity. Most people have families they
leave behind because they need money in order to survive and have food on the table every day,
they see the United States as the solution to their problem. On another note, the 1960's movements
emerged during the Civil Rights era, in order to earn justice and rights for Mexican–Americans in
the United States. After years of being ignored, Mexicans decided to take a stand through the help of
activists, hoping to attain victories for the Chicano community. Overall, after constant oppression,
Chicanos fought back all the harsh treatment through the Chicano Movement arguing for a broad
section of issues; however, nowadays many racial problems continue to exist, such as SB 1070 and
HB 2281, which were polemical bills classified as racial attacks; they were directly aimed towards
Mexicans. The Chicano Movement arose during the Civil Rights era; it was a cultural and political
movement, in order to

Mexican American Identity
Identity is an essential necessity for humans to demonstrate the distinct individual. A person's
identity may take time to develope as the person acquires new interests, influences, and
comprehension of the surrounding people. Authors such as Adrienne Rich and Gloria Anzaldua
write about the struggles persistent in identity. Rich is identified by her gender and race by other
people, while Anzaldua is defined as to what a Mexican American women should be. As a Mexican
American, Amelia Mendoza, my best friend, encounters the strains of identity.
In the summer of 2010, Amelia travelled to Mexico and experienced culture shock. The way
Mexicans live in the United States is different from the life in Oaxaca, Mexico. She was in a
different country where the majority of the population spoke Spanish instead of English. She was
not comfortable enough to open her mouth and speak the native tongue of her parents. Amelia stood
by her relatives side at all times and did not interact with other people in the area. Communication
with other people was handled by Amelia's father. Amelia noticed houses are not all made from
wood, but from adobe and a variety of roof tiles. Trees and animals encompass the majority of the
land, leading people to cultivate their food and make a living off of it. Stores are located in a section
of a person's house. Students had uniforms that were: red, green, or white with an emblem to
indicate the school they belonged to. Children were allowed to come back from

Mexican American Conquest
In 1846 the American Congress voted to support President James Polk aggression on Mexico. The
United States had refrained from war with Mexico for close to a decade, but in 1844 President John
Tyler started what would eventually be executed by President Polk. In 1836 Texas won
independence from Mexico. In 1844 President Tyler began negotiations with Texas which
eventually led to the treaty of annexation. Actions of President Tyler unsettled Mexico as a
significant territory was under dispute between Texas and Mexico. James Polk succeeded Tyler in
1844 and believed in the ideology of manifest destiny whereby the influence of the US was to
spread on the continent and into the Pacific (History, 2016). The Mexican American war earnestly
started ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
For Mexico, the Treaty of Guadalupe was a big loss but it was a course they had to take to avoid
further annexation by US expansionist; some members of Congress wanted more occupation of
Mexico. The win for the US was the new territory provided mineral and land for cultivation, and
most importantly the treaty ended a war that was costly. The treaty however eventually lead to the
Civil War in the U.S. because it tilted the balance between Free and slave states. Mexico descended
into civil war because of the division of the course of action to be taken after losing more than half
of its

Mexican American Journey
The Journey of a Mexican–American Feeling different isn't necessarily something uncommon to
me, especially growing up as a Mexican–American living in the United States. It's interesting
because you would think I'd feel like I belonged in America. After all, I was born in America. Just
like Richard Rodriguez mentions in his chapter "Asians" from the book "Days of Obligation, "I
didn't like America..." (Rodriguez 172), until I started school and just like him "...I became
Americanized" (Rodriguez 172). Like Rodriguez implies, the school system in America ensures that
students learn about America and the language which inevitably Americanizes them. With that being
said coming to this point, where I can say I am American was a journey of its own. I often find
myself struggling to maintain my roots while still being American. Rodriguez mentions early on in
his chapter, "The child of immigrant parents is supposed to perch on a hyphen, taking only the dose
of America he needs to advance in America" (Rodriguez 161). In other words, the child of
immigrant parents are neither really Mexican nor American, they're just somewhere in the middle or
as Rodriguez states they're on the hyphen. It's difficult to try to maintain your culture while still
being "American" enough to succeed. As a Mexican–American, if you're too "American", you lose a
part of you and your culture. On the other hand, if you're too "Mexican", you will never find success
in America. Now the

The Mexican-American Revolution Summary
Scholars are quick to neglect the beginning of the fight when discussing the Mexican–American
struggle for justice. People claim that "the first major rumblings...were heard in California in 1967,"
citing radicalization in universities (Rosales 175). However, they blatantly disregard the foundation
for the movement as whole. The beginning of the 20th century Mexican–American revolution dates
back at least to depression–era America, starting with the case Alvarez vs Lemon Grove, a
monumental decision prohibiting de jure segregation of Mexican–Americans in public school and
followed by multiple other lawsuits similarly challenging segregation and discrimination (Castro).
Rosales's reading does however differentiate these cases as well as early

The Mexican-American War
New Mexico was just a dry desert owned by Mexico. The people in New Mexico were treated badly
and not given the food, water, or money needed to survive. New Mexico was stopped from
expanding and becoming something great. The, what is now a great state, used to just be a poorly
populated desert. The Mexican–American War was hope for the people of New Mexico. The war
could save them, the war could give New Mexico the freedom that it wanted and deserved. The
Mexican American War gave hope to New Mexico and changed New Mexico forever.
The Mexican–American War was a tremendous war that started on April 25, 1846 and ended on
February 2, 1848. The war greatly affected both Mexico and the United States. The war affected
Mexico greatly because, ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Mexico had a very unstable government at the time. This means that the leaders and laws of Mexico
were changing over and over. In fact at one point, there were over 30 new leaders of Mexico in 25
years. Mexico's economy was also horrible at the time and money was not very easy to come by.
Mexico's Government was short with money as well. Mexico barely had the time and money to care
for itself. It was obviously not in a good enough state to care for New Mexico as well. In result,
New Mexico was isolated from expanding and from the rest of Mexico. Mexico was not
remembered again until the Mexican–American

Essay On Mexican Americans In The 1960s
In the 1960s, the Mexican Americans identity reached a point where it was integrated into the
political life of the nation. The Chicano population was so large in numbers that they could no
longer be ignored in the cities. They had profoundly affected the economy, politics, fashion, and
music in the 60s. The baby boomers generation listened to Rock–and–roll and supported integration
and opposed the Vietnam War. World War II raised the awareness of civil rights and liberties among
minorities. The revolt of youth during the decade challenged the stability of the middle class and the
ruling elite. The Ford foundation in the 1960s, funded a million dollars to the University of
California to study Mexican Americans in the 1960 census. The census showed that Spanish–
surnamed persons in the Southwest earned $968 per capita, less than half of the income that white
Americans made. Unemployment was also higher among Chicanos. Social segregation was still
common in places like Texas and ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
Poverty project, especially juvenile delinquency programs, brought together youth who formed the
Mexican American Youth Association (MAYA), the most active Chicano organization in El Paso
during the 1960s. In Los Angels, the Mexican population more that double in the 1960s, from
576.716 to 1,228593. More that a third of Mexican lived in overcrowded housing, and payed
abnormally high rent.
The Harvest of Shame was a documentary that was aired. It went on to tell the miserable plight of
migrant workers, showing families working in horrible working environments, living in run down
housing, enduring misery so that an affluent nation could be fed. The people in the video were the
forgotten people, the underclothes, underfed, and undereducated. Most immigrants didn't get paid
for holidays, sick days, or overtime; they had no retirement or disability plans, or medical

Mexican American And Mexican Americans
II. Mexican Americans
A. Brief explanation regarding the history of this ethnic group
Mexican's American who are they, and why did they migrate to American; what were they in search
of. Mexican American's are one of the largest ethnic group in America today average of more than
half of the populace; nearly reaching more than 30 million in the United States alone. Compassed by
these immigrants more than half are here illegally that migrated over to the United States in search
of a better living. Moreover, others are here as original citizens, or of the group that was given
naturalization. Thus, taking place in deliberation of the colonial era, in the mid 1920's, where
increasingly moor Mexican's foreigners have crossed our ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net
...
B. Reasons to immigrate
i. Reason 1
Better Life style, and better education; and financial support for family members in Mexico A.
While Mexican American's came to America for many diverse motives, utmost come to seek a better
life style, including that of pecuniary sanctuary; to be able to support their relations abroad. B.
While others crossed the border to obtain a better eminence of education for their offspring,
especially, those looking to obtain a sophisticated step ahead of the rest.
ii. Reason 2
Medical assistance, Suitable housing; and school funding
A. Another alternative motive why Mexican Americans come to America is in pursuit for remedial
assistances to better their education.
B.
They also come to look for low income homes, something that is not offered to them in Mexico; or
that may have shaped unethical living circumstance.
C. Thirdly, they cross the border to establish medical attention and health benefits, since Mexico
only offers very underprivileged homoeopathic aid for these populaces.
C. Public policies affecting the ethnic group (two policies per group are needed)

i. Public Policy 1 On June 15, 2012 President Obama put in an executive order called DACA
(Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals) which cancelled or delayed any form of punishment to
these migrants from deportation of their children if their

Hispanic Culture And Mexican-Americans
In the United States, Mexican–Americans comprise 14.5 percent of the total U.S. population. Today,
while most Mexican–Americans live in urban areas, significant numbers comprise both the north
and south, across the United States. However, one misconception is that all Spanish or Latino
cultures are the same. The differences between Mexico and other Latin American countries include
500 years of separate histories and their specific customs. These specific customs were present prior
to their submission to the Spaniards. Although Spanish is the principal language spoken by most
Hispanics, regional pronunciations and dialects differ in their speech patterns. Similarly, the
Mexican cultures each have different dietary patterns. The traditional Mexican–American diet is rich
in a variety of foods and dishes that represent a blend of cultures. Primarily, pre–Columbian,
indigenous Indian, Spanish, French, and more recently, American culture. Traditional diets reflect
the geographic regions of Mexico and the availability of local fruits, vegetables, grains, dairy
products, and protein sources. Tap water is often unsafe in Mexico new immigrants may need to be
reassured that U.S. tap water is safe. The family unit is the single most important social unit in the
life of Hispanics. Family responsibilities come before all other responsibilities. Gender
differentiation and male dominance are issues to consider while working with Hispanic families.
The father is the leader of the family,

Becoming Mexican American Essay
Becoming Mexican American George J. Sanchez Becoming Mexican American is George J.
Sanchez's document how Chicanos survived as a community in Los Angeles during the first part of
the twentieth century. He goes into detail of how many thousands of Mexicans were pushed back in
to Mexico during a formal repatriation. Those that survived in Los Angeles joined labor unions and
became involved in New Deal politics. The experience of Mexican–Americans in the United States
is both similar, yet different from other minority groups. They were treated much like the Irish–
American and other newcomers of the ninetieth century. Mexican–Americans also like the Irish,
soon made themselves indispensable in the first half of the twentieth century as ... Show more
Even by the 1930s, this was particularly among young people who, "born and educated in the
United States, demanded to be included in the city's future ... " (Sanchez 226). At a crucial meeting
of Mexican–Americans in 1927, facing an Anglo led municipal incorporation move that would have
raised taxes and driven them out, many Mexican–American leaders opposed applying for U.S.
citizenship. Even though it would have given them more of a target, specifically, the right to vote on
a subsequent ballot measure. The affront to Mexico and their heritage was, for them, a crime that
outweighed the benefits (Sanchez 4). Discrimination against those of Mexican family reached its
peak in the depression years of the 1930s when the lack of jobs started a kind of backlash among the
Anglo majority. The tone was set from the top down, as President Herbert Hoover "denounced
Mexicans as one of the causes of the ... depression ... and ... initiated plans to deport them." Hoover
declared, "'they took jobs away from American citizens.'" (Sanchez 213). In 1931, the California
legislature barred any company doing business with the state from hiring "alien" workers on public
jobs, forcing the removal of Mexicans from construction work, highway repair, school maintenance,
and jobs in government buildings (Sanchez 211). At the same time, officials in Los Angeles

The History of Mexican Americans Essay
In the Preface of Major Problems in Mexican American History Zaragosa Vargas writes, "Nearly
two thirds of Latinos in the United States are of Mexican descent, or Chicanos– a term of self
definition that emerged during the 1960's and early 1970s civil rights movement. Chicanos reside
mainly in the Southwest, the Pacific Northwest, and the Midwest. Their history begins in the
precolonial Spanish era, and they share a rich mestizo cultural heritage of Spanish, Indian, and
African origins. The Chicanos' past is underscored by conquest of the present–day American
Southwest first by the Spanish and then by the United States following the Mexican American War"
(xv). When one thinks of a Chicano one thinks of the Mayans and Aztecs, the conquests, ... Show
more content on Helpwriting.net ...
It shows the struggle and emotions of the Chicanos. Some of the murals like the mural of Mexican
history and an unknown really shows all the aspect of their history. It shows the natives, women,
men, revolutionaries and the major figures in Mexican history. The home page shows a drawing that
represents the mixture of race which makes up the Chicano identity, the Native, Spaniard, and
mestizo. This is a very visual history and one can pick some of the emotions and struggle through
the paintings but one needs to understand the written history in order to appreciate it better because
it makes it easier to identify especially with the major figures. Michelle Rosado makes an interesting
point about the murals in the Chicano web site, when she mentions that "one may think that this is
the history of all Mexican–Americans, but it is not. The effect of certain events that occurred in
Mexican–American history on this community and California, such as the Chicano Civil Rights
Movement and the Chicano Moratorium march against the Vietnam war, is addressed. The major
outcome of these events emphasized by the web site is the influence it had on art in the Mexican–
American culture. However, the history and other effects on all Mexican–Americans throughout the
United states is not discussed". I agre with Michelle Rosado that "similar to the web site it [the
documentary] does not talk about the very beggining of the Mexican–American

The Struggles of Mexicans in Mexican-American History Essay
The Struggles of Mexicans in Mexican–American History
Mexico's problems originally began upon the arrival of the Spanish in 1492, as illustrated in Major
Problems in Mexican American History by Zaragosa Vargas as well as in the video documentary,
Chicano!. The sequence of events which date back to the precolonial Spanish days and take place in
Mexico's history eventually provoke the national movement that called for social justice and
equality, especially after the signing of the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo. Then came the question of
group and individual identity. Those of Mexican heritage were broken up into the groups
"Chicanos," which were the 'Americanized' Mexicans or the Mexicans born in the United States, and
the actual ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
"In northern Mexico the Indian population fell from 2,500,000 to less than 320,000...as mining
activity in northern Mexico created routes of infection that killed from 30 to 40 percent of the Indian
population even prior to Spanish contact"(Vargas 30). The food production of region also went
down and the already established societies soon became disarticulated. These societies were
generally made to produce for and in the interest of the Spaniards after armed conquest. The
Spaniards had no regards in the long–term evolvement of Mexico's region. Missions were
established throughout the Mexican region to encourage the implementation of culture and religion
on the indigenous people of Mexico. The Indians in the areas of conquest resisted and revolted, even
after the independence of Mexico from Spain.
The establishments of settlements throughout the late eighteenth and early nineteenth centuries
induced Mestizaje, the outcome of racial interbreeding. Mestizaje was "the product of racial
interbreeding with Indian, black, and mixed–blood women"(Vargas 62). Due to the diverse mixture
of races and color in the region, one's social and legal status depended on one's skin color, which is a
problem in Mexican history that can also be seen in the late nineteenth and twentieth centuries. The
lighter and therefore wealthier Mexicans easily accommodated with

The Mexican-American Culture
The culture of the Mexican people has been resilient in Southern California. The Mexican culture is
a culture of pride, courage, and humbleness that is exhibited at LA Plaza De Cultura Y Artes. This
resilient culture was exhibited during the tumultuous times of the early 20th century throughout
Southern California. The early 20th century specifically the twenty's through the forties was a
dangerous period as many Mexican–Americans experienced levels of racial discrimination that went
against their rights of being American citizens. Incidents range from forced cultural assimilation,
beating, and lynchings, to mass illegal deportations. Still, after all these injustices Mexican–
Americans responded by standing up and not letting racism and fear ... Show more content on
Helpwriting.net ...
For example, in 1942 after the death of a young male Latino in Los Angeles, a historical trial
occurred that denied the right of a fair trial for numerous Mexican–Americans. According to The
Sleepy Lagoon Murder Case: Race Discrimination and Mexican–American Rights, " The Sleepy
Lagoon Murder case was where seventeen young Mexican–origin men and boys were unfairly
convicted for the murder of another Mexican American man on the eastside of Los Angeles"
(Bernstein, 126). The writer of the book Mark Weitz argues in this review, " The defendants were
denied a fair trial and convicted without adequate evidence. And that a pervasive fear of immigrant
"outsiders," patriotic wartime fervor, and the media helped impede justice. (Bernstein, 126). Shortly,
after this incident occurred another incident of anti–Mexican sentiment and wartime fervor. This
incident is known as the Zoot Suit Riots. In 1943, many servicemen were stationed in Mexican–
American neighborhoods in Los Angeles. Some these servicemen did not like the attire that some of
these Mexican Americans were wearing. They were dressed in a Zoot Suit, which as the
Smithsonian, states were seen as, "unpatriotic to servicemen because of the flashy appearance"
(Gregory, 13). They were also seen as "unpatriotic" also because war rations had been in effect for
items such as fabric and these suits were huge and made of all fabric. So, in 1943 over a series of
days, thousands of servicemen rioted and attacked any young Latino male they encountered. After
the riots were over many white press outlets celebrated the attacks they saw as justified and the Los
Angeles city council passed an ordinance to make wearing Zoot Suits illegal. A racial intolerance
sentiment caused many Mexican–Americans to become afraid, but they never let fear from limiting
them. Over the next two

Los Mineros: Mexican American Immigrants, And Mexican...
It was a cloudy Sunday morning and I was about eight years old. I was too young to remember
everything from my childhood but not too young to remember this experience that emotionally and
mentally disturbed me. My mom and aunt thought it would be a good idea to go get donuts for
breakfast. So, we proceeded down the street to our local donut shop in Carlsbad. The fact that it was
Sunday made the waiting line twice as long so I stood there patiently while I staring out the window.
I could hear my mom and my aunts' conversation, as I stood right next to them. Because they were
born and raised in Mexico, they knew little English and therefore, they communicated within each
other in their preferred language, which was Spanish. Everything was going ... Show more content
on Helpwriting.net ...
However, unfortunately, little discrimination still remained in the town of Clifton and Morenci like it
does today in 2016. Thankfully because of laws discrimination is not as bad today but it is still not
completely gone. The discrimination that occurs today reflects much of what previously happened.
In my opinion an experience in which someone faced discrimination should not be something to be
ashamed of but rather something that should be spoken about. The more we speak up about it the
more awareness we are brining to the people who surround us. Often many people discriminate
when in reality they do not know why. For many it was the expectation growing up; to express
prejudice against a group. But let us break that change and keep fighting for respect of all races.
Speaking up also brings the benefit of being knowledgeable about how the past reflects the future.
These brave immigrants are a great example of hard work that pay off after fifty years of fighting
and accomplishing their

Mexicans And Mexican American Youth
Throughout our history as a nation, we have earned a reputation of undermining the relationships we
have had with minorities and of largely neglecting their needs. Our almost hostile nature towards
minorities in the United States can largely be seen in the treatment of Mexicans and Mexican
American citizens in the times surrounding World War Two. Such hostilities are reflected in our
treatment of Mexican Americans in the late 19th after the Civil War and early 20th centuries, the
Sleepy Lagoon murder responses, and the Zoot Suit riots. My primary source reveals a feeling of
inferiority in the United States by the Mexican American youth due discrimination that they faced,
which can be better understood by analyzing the cultural contexts. As railroads expanded during the
United States western expansionist period in the late 19th century, Mexican immigration along with
Eastern migration grew in the west. Once the Mexican immigrants arrived, they largely occupied
commercial agriculture in large farms, mining industries, and the construction of railroads, but were
generally paid very little. During this time, as Arizona State History Professor Manuel P. Servín
explained, the Mexican Americans that had been here for years had already begun to feel despised
by the Western Expansionists, and were looked at as less American and an unassimilable foreigner.
The lower class Mexican immigrants and citizens largely assimilated on rail road cities, or Sonora
towns, such as Los Angeles, El

Mexican-American Minority
In like manner, this minority was underrepresented. The Anglos representing for Mexican–
Americans were just representatives in name. The inequalities and unjust treatment were evident for
these citizens in Texas. The unfairness resulted in emerging of some Mexican–American leaders
who sought for reforms. These few among the many have seen the poverty, and inequality
conditions of their own people. They understood that some measures must be done to improve the
lives of Mexican–Americans. The early Mexican–American leaders began to form organizations.
Also, the civil rights movements were instrumental for calling equal access to economic, social, and
political aspects for Mexican–Americans. As a start, they used their number as a leverage for ...
Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
This demographic is significant to the electoral politics because in closed observation, Texans are
likely to support representatives which they can identify themselves. As per textbook of Mora–
Rugers, 88 percent of Texans are religiously affiliated. The Protestants group take 57 percent of the
total population, while Roman Catholic is composed of 24 percent of the total population in Texas.
The Evangelical Protestant which is 34 percent of the total population is said to side with
Republicans. The Catholic group are divided between Democrats and Republicans. (17, Mora–
Ruger) Historically, the officials elected in office were predominantly Catholics. Taking in
consideration that Hispanics is the largest population and are Catholics, that's a given that religion
make an impact in the election

Mexican American Males and Alcoholism
Ruth Gutierrez
Proff. Julia Curry
MAS 160 9 a.m.
12 May 2009
Mexican American Males and Alcoholism Drinking alcohol is a behavior that diverse ethnicities and
cultures have adapted as a form of leisure, celebration, socialization, or cultural practice. Mexican
American males have engaged in drinking alcohol for all of these reasons. It is important to analyze
the process of acculturation Mexican American experience and how it affects their ability to
persuade and control their alcohol consumption. The stress of adjusting to a new place than the one
they have been accustomed to and have already been accepted in, can lead males to drink alcohol to
help them in coping with their issues. The gravity of extreme alcohol drinking is also ... Show more
Lastly, access to alcohol in Mexico is not a difficult obstacle to overcome. Therefore, males who
migrated to the U.S. have already been heavily exposed to alcohol. These points are not to prove
that alcoholism among Mexican American men is caused entirely by the exposure of Mexico's
customs, but to outline the different reasons why a male might fall in alcoholism. A male who
migrates to the U.S. or a Mexican American male that has lived most or his entire life in the U.S. as
mentioned before, might engage in excessive drinking because of the pressures of acculturation.
Dealing with the stress of leaving behind natal customs to adapt new values and behaviors can result
heavy alcohol consumption. Even though the Mexican culture has already shaped the behavior of
drinking in males, it is still different from the American drinking behaviors. Mexican men drink less
frequently, but more heavily, while Americans drink more frequently, but not so heavily (Gilbert and
Cervantes 1987). Clearly a combination of both as a form of dealing with stress can be catastrophic.
During the acculturation process the greatest amount of stress can be felt when the feeling of
loneliness starts to settle in. When a male feels he is distanced from his Mexican culture and life
style, but not accepted by the new dominant culture he has been trying to adapt, he is more
susceptive to alcoholism (Zimmerman and Roysircar

Mexican American Culture
Every culture worldwide has its own communication styles and each culture can vary greatly in their
perception of time and how they orient themselves with time daily. To understand how these styles
and perceptions can impact nursing care; this paper will examine communication style and time
orientation of the Mexican culture, and to increase awareness to these issues to guide nurses to
provide culturally educated care. The Mexican–American people are among the fastest–growing
minority population in the United States (Eggenberger, Grassley, & Restrepo, 2017). By educating
nurses on the culture of the Mexican people; nurses can then provide a more competent and
appropriate care to these clients. It is often widely thought that the people of Mexico tend to be
animated, or heated in their communication styles. For those either unfamiliar with this group of
people or lacking knowledge about this group, it can be seen as being out of control. Those of the
population who were not raised in the United States may even avoid eye contact with authority
figures; which nurses can be seen as, or when they are in awkward situations. This means that nurses
should understand that they are not shy nor are they avoiding eye contact to lie, but, rather to be
seen as humble or to avoid awkwardness (Luis & Pajewski, 2017) . The nursing workforce should
understand that those from Mexico, or those of Mexican descent may appear to nod in agreement
when asked a question; but this does not always

Mexican American Mistreatment
Although mistreatment caused considerable suffering for Mexican–Americans, it also forced them
to overcome internal differences in order to form a secure community, and contributed to the
eventual development of a sense of mexicanidad. Gutiérrez explains how the abuse faced by
Mexican–Americans caused the formation of such ties, stating, "it is common for such newly
created minority populations to develop a new sense of identity as a natural defense mechanism or
as part of a larger 'oppositional strategy' against the prejudice and discrimination shown them by the
majority or dominant group." The Mexican–Americans developed barrios and colonias throughout
the Southwest to act as such defense mechanisms. These were communities of Mexican–Americans
... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
The formation of segregated barrios and the development of a wealth of community–provided
services showed that Mexican–Americans were not content to be marginalized by the United States.
Instead, they were embracing an empowering new sense of self–determination and referring to
themselves as "Mexicanos or as members of a larger, pan–Hispanic community of La Raza." At this
time La Raza referenced individuals of the Mexican "race", whether they were in Mexico or in the
United States, and was particularly important in the United States, where race was more important
than citizenship. In the late 19th and early 20th century United States, race was determined by purity
of blood, and there were only two races–white and black. White meant the individual had "pure
blood" (European blood); black meant that the individual's blood included indigenous or African
influences. Being white meant being able to exercise one's constitutional rights and being treated as
a normal member of society's dominant group. Being black meant that, regardless of whether he or
she was a citizen, the individual would face discrimination similar to that which I described earlier.
When the Spanish conquerors mixed with the people of Latin America, forming the mestizo, or
mixed race, population that now composes most of the region, they removed themselves from a
"white" classification in the United States. Thus, by engaging with the concept of La Raza, which
connotes a mestizo race and population, Mexican–Americans rejected the binary nature of race in
the United States and embraced what made them different–their indigenous–mixed blood and the
cultural heritage that accompanied it. While the abuse directed towards Mexican–Americans may
have

Mexican American Perception Of Mexican Immigrants In America
Izard, Isaac
16 Oct. 2017
The Problem with America
The pattern of companies recruiting Mexican workers and those workers being deported, and the
blatant racism present in America, including actions by the US government laid the foundation for
the Mexican Struggle. The people who exploited Mexican workers began by propagating specific
stereotypes that were to their favor. These corporations insinuated that Mexicans were genetically
made for the kind of work which they were being given. The spreading of these stereotypes played a
significant role in the Mexican American reception of Mexican Immigrants. They didn't want to be
associated with the negative ideas being spread around about Mexicans. Thus, they took shelter in
their American citizenship and before long, they too were rallying for the same immigration
restrictions.
Understanding how Mexican Americans felt about Mexican Immigrants is important to
understanding a specific aspect of the Mexican Struggle. Mexican Workers also had to work against
Mexican Americans in the United States. Not only were white rallying for immigration restrictions,
but so were Mexican Americans. Lots of Mexican Americans didn't like Mexican Immigrants due to
the state of the job market. Many whites believed that Mexican workers were temporary and had no
staying power. "They simply want work..., they are not immigrants at all. They do not try to buy or
colonize our land, and they hope someday to be able to own a piece of land in their own

The American Of The Mexican Revolution
At the time before and during World War II white Americans considered themselves the only true
Americans. In the 1900s during the Mexican Revolution, many Mexicans migrated to the United
States, to escape the violence that came from a national uprising against Mexico's government. After
the Mexican Revolution, many Mexicans fought for the United States in World War II. Mexican
American patriotism helped to soften racist attitudes. Hector Perez Garcia was a Mexican American
Rights advocate, looking to change the poor treatment, disrespect, and discrimination directed at
Mexican Americans. Through modifying policies and laws with the American Government Issue
Forum, they changed treatment that Mexicans receive. Hector Garcia's childhood was ... Show more
Eventually the Garcia's trailed away from manual labor and began to work in the dry goods
business. In many states of the United States, particularly in Texas, Mexican Americans faced
prejudice and discrimination daily. Although there was constant violence and judgement casted upon
himself and his family Dr. Garcia's fight for survival and equality stood unshaken. Hector Garcia's
"youth was a lesson" (Sanchez Part 2). Dr. Garcia not only learned academically, but he learned
through everyday life. He learned how to cope and live with the discrimination that would persist
into his adulthood.
During his educational career Dr. Garcia, was exposed to many different views of the Hispanic
people. In the strive to achieve his goals, Garcia pressed on and "graduated from a segregated
elementary school and was told in high school by his English teacher, 'No Mexican American will
ever [receive] an A in my class'" (Yzaguirre). He continuously challenged inequality, in spite of
segregation and discrimination being constant in his everyday life. Hector Perez Garcia graduated
high school with a high academic standing despite growing up in poverty and with language
barriers. Not once did he believe those that said Mexican Americans could not thrive and succeed in
a new world. He attended Edinburg Junior College, and transferred to the University of Texas at
Austin (Rozeff, Texas State). Hector Garcia's broad education contributed to the way he solved

Mexican Americans Essay
Starting in the late nineteenth century until the end of World War II, the immigration policy in the
United States experienced dramatic changes that altered the pace of immigration. High rates of
immigration sparked adverse emotions and encouraged restrictive legislation and numerous bills in
Congress advocated the suspension of immigration and the deportation of non–Americans
(Wisconsin Historical Society). Mexican American history was shaped by several bills in Congress
and efforts to deport all non–Americans from the United States. The United States was home to
several Spanish–origin groups, prior to the Declaration of Independence. The term "Mexican
American" was a label used to describe a number of Hispanic American groups that ... Show more
Mexican Americans and American Indians have been traditionally more disadvantaged than other
Americans in regards to income, and education (Mitz). According to the 2007 U.S. Census Bureau
report, 21.5 percent of Mexican Americans and 25 percent of American Indians live at or below the
poverty level (Health). However, both groups have been able to maintain a large majority of their
traditions when compared to other Americans. Their traditions and culture can be seen through
religious beliefs, value systems, cuisine, and economic structures (Healey). Despite over a century
of powerful attempts to Americanize both Mexican Americans and American Indians, both groups
have successfully been able to preserve their heritage and traditions. Mexican Americans also shared
problems of poverty and discrimination with African Americans. According to Healy, Mexican
Americans, like African Americans, have been viewed as cheap, unskilled agricultural labor that has
been methodically excluded from mainstream America. Unlike most immigrants from Europe, who
lived in urban areas, Mexican Americans and African Americans were prone to live and work in
rural parts of the United States. Because both groups lived in less urban areas they had limited
resources for education, skill development and economic opportunities. At the same time, however,
Mexican Americans

Mexican American Labor
Usually, when we think about the United States, we think words or phrases like "freedom, equality
for all, and home or the brave." Still, throughout the late 18th century and early 19th century, we see
how the United States struggles to acknowledge the Mexican population. We see how the fail to
acknowledge that their work should be equally valued as of an American labor would, or how
judgment is based on the color of skin, rather than the quality of nurture. Above all else, we see how
at the end the United States concedes that Mexican laborers are a profit to the nation rather than
invaders.
As America begins to grow, we see an expansion of industrializations. For Mexicans trying to
provide food and shelter to their families this meant an ... Show more content on Helpwriting.net ...
There seems to be an ideology that white orphan children should be raised by "whites" only, not
Mexicans. This shows us how prejudice and close–minded white people were towards people darker
skin. Acuna, relates to us an event in which Mexicans families who had adopted a white complicated
orphan, experienced "a posse of white males armed with Winchester rifles marched to the Mexican
quarter of North Clifton" in where their adopted child was taken away from them. (Acuna, 159).
This event went to trial, and many white people were brought in to testify. Most, if not all of,
attested that "Mexicans [were] not fit to raise white babies" (Acuna, 159). They supported their
statements with false, or over dramatic accusation that Mexican adopting mother were "prostitutes"
(Acuna, 159). Overall, a very despicable image Mexican parenthood was illustrated that at the end,
"the law found that Mexicans were unfit to raise white children" (Acuna, 159).
Mexicans who came to the United States or were already citizens of this nation, however were
cursed with dark skin were most likely found working on railroads, farms, and mines. Throughout
this time period Mexican laborers start to gather in groups, also known as "Mexican Unions" in
which they begin to demand their value. They asked for a higher wage, as well as equal treatment
amongst their white

Mexican American And Mexican-American Cultures
After reading the article, my understanding of the terms have changed drastically, when i personally
think about Mexican–American or Chicana/O's, i think that they choose to identify as a certain
culture that represents them best.
When identifying as a culture or a best representation of how you feel in your heart, i feel it comes
from the way you are raised and brought up, if your family identifies as a Mexican–American than
you will believe that is what you are, and it goes on from generation to generation.
Even 5 or 6 generations ago the family could have identified as Hispano's or even Spanish, but as
times change cultures change and people have change of heart.
These terms are not only culturally related but they are derived from struggle and identification from
a political standpoint, as what was taught in class the term Chicana/O is a political positioning for
people who have been positioned by the government.
From the outside looking in, when knowing someone identifies as a certain culture i notice that it is
not only a way of self identification that was passed down from suffering and scrutiny but it is also a
way of moving on from a certain struggle that has oppressed them for so many years.
Yes, these terms are a way of self identification, heritage, culture and a way of life, it goes back to
the same way you are brought up and the environment in which you live in.
Potentially while growing up and as you get older in life there is a possibility of changing

Mexican American Cultural Identity

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