Hispanic and Latino Americans

Hispanic and Latino Americans
Group	Hispanic and Latino Americans
Population	62,080,044 (2020 U.S. Census)
Popplace	California, Texas, Florida, New York, Illinois
Languages	English, Spanish, Spanglish, Portuguese, indigenous languages
Religions	Predominantly Christianity (Roman Catholic, Evangelical Protestant), Irreligion
Related	Spanish Americans, Portuguese Americans, Filipino Americans, Indigenous peoples of the Americas

Hispanic and Latino Americans are residents of the United States who trace their ancestry or national origin to Spanish-speaking countries or Latin America. This diverse pan-ethnic group, the nation's largest minority, includes people from Mexico, Puerto Rico, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, and numerous other nations. Their presence has profoundly shaped the national history, culture, economy, and demographics.

Terminology

The terms "Hispanic" and "Latino" are used by the United States Census Bureau and other institutions, though they have distinct origins and connotations. "Hispanic" generally refers to persons with origins in Spain or Spanish-speaking countries, emphasizing linguistic heritage, while "Latino" often denotes geography, relating to people from Latin America, including Brazil where Portuguese is spoken. The adoption of these labels was formalized through directives from the Office of Management and Budget and legislation like the Equal Employment Opportunity Act. Many individuals prefer specific national identifiers, such as Mexican American or Cuban American, and the gender-neutral term "Latinx" has gained some usage, particularly in academic and activist circles.

Demographics

According to the 2020 United States Census, they number over 62 million, constituting approximately 19% of the total U.S. population. The largest subgroups are of Mexican origin, followed by those from Puerto Rico and Cuba. Geographically, the population is concentrated in the Southwest, with major communities in Los Angeles, San Antonio, Houston, and Phoenix, as well as significant populations in New York City, Miami, and Chicago. States with the highest populations include California, Texas, and Florida. The community is relatively young, with a median age several years below the national average, contributing to significant demographic growth.

History

Their history in lands now part of the United States predates the nation's founding, beginning with Spanish colonization in the 16th century in areas like St. Augustine and Santa Fe. The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo that ended the Mexican–American War incorporated much of the modern American Southwest and its inhabitants. Subsequent waves of migration were driven by events like the Mexican Revolution, the Cuban Revolution, the Central American crisis of the 1980s, and ongoing economic factors. Key moments in civil rights history include the Chicano Movement, led by figures like César Chávez and Dolores Huerta, and the landmark case Hernandez v. Texas.

Culture

The cultural impact is vast and multifaceted, influencing American English with loanwords, and enriching national cuisine, music, and arts. Culinary contributions range from Tex-Mex to Cuban sandwiches. Music genres like salsa, Tejano, Reggaeton, and bachata are mainstream. Literary figures such as Sandra Cisneros and Junot Díaz have won major awards like the Pulitzer Prize. Religious observances, including Día de la Virgen de Guadalupe and Quinceañera celebrations, are widely practiced. Media outlets like Univision and Telemundo are broadcasting giants.

Socioeconomic status

Socioeconomic indicators show a complex picture with significant variation between subgroups. While aggregate figures for educational attainment and median household income often trail national averages, there are notable success stories, particularly within the Cuban American community. They are a vital part of the U.S. labor force, with high participation in sectors like agriculture, construction, and service. Challenges include higher rates of poverty and lower rates of health insurance coverage compared to non-Hispanic whites. Political influence is growing, with elected officials serving at all levels, from local offices to the United States Congress and the United States Cabinet.

Notable people

Countless individuals have made seminal contributions across all fields. In government and law, figures include Sonia Sotomayor, the first Hispanic justice on the Supreme Court of the United States, and former HUD Secretary Julián Castro. Entertainment icons range from musicians Selena and Gloria Estefan to actors Rita Moreno and Oscar Isaac. Sports legends include baseball Hall of Famer Roberto Clemente and golfer Nancy Lopez. Pioneers in science and space include Ellen Ochoa, the first Hispanic woman in space, and Nobel laureate in physics, Luis Walter Alvarez. Business leaders such as Roberto Goizueta, former CEO of The Coca-Cola Company, have also left an indelible mark.

Category:Hispanic and Latino American Category:Ethnic groups in the United States