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My Own Words

Fine Arts

Sports

Food

Language

Politics

Demographics

The history of the United States is incomplete without the inclusion of the story of Mexican Americans. Mexican Americans are often called the forgotten people because of their lack if inclusion in history books. "When they are included, they are often portrayed in either a negative light or as a caricature or stereotype, which only adds to the lack of understanding about Mexican Americans. Mexican Americans represent a very large and important part of our society and they are not newcomers." (Dr. T. Pérez)

Even when they are grouped together with other "Hispanics," they make up the largest number. "Most of them live in the Southwest for historical reasons, many have been there for centuries, even before the Anglo-Americans, some migrated during the Mexican Revolution of 1910 and others are still making their way into the United States because of the availability of work that is not present in their country. They go by many names depending upon their region or their politics: Mexicans, Mexican Americans, Hispanics, Latinos, Chicanos, Californios, Tejanos, and Manitos are but a few of the names, but they are basically the same people with a common language or culture that binds them." (Dr. T. Pérez)

They have added to and enriched our society through their many contributions. Among these contributions is their willingness to work hard and harvest crops in the valleys of the Southwest as well as in other parts of the country, thereby making these valleys among the richest in the world. This assignment is designed to enlighten individuals on the impact different cultures, such as the Mexican culture, have contributed to this nation's own culture. Throughout the United States, the impact is apparent ranging from the fine arts, sports, cuisines, language, politics, and demographics.

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