The United States of America is home to many different racial and ethnic groups. It is home to one of the fastest growing minority groups in America, the Hispanics. MSN Encarta states that the Hispanic population has increased to 44 million as of 2006. They now make up 15 percent of the United States population. Therefore, Hispanic Americans are a very important part of this country’s make up. Their growth will continue to support the economy and enrich the nation through their culture (food, language, religion, and music).
The Hispanic American community has many subgroups from various countries. Some of those countries are Mexico, Cuba, Puerto Rico, The Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Columbia, Ecuador, Peru and Panama. Hispanic is a term used to describe the people from these countries; however, they prefer more specific categories such as Mexican Americans or Cuban Americans. Therefore, Hispanic groups are an important part of this country’s culture and an integral part of this country’s history (Schaefer, 2006).
Mexican Americans are a Spanish speaking ethnic group that may speak English as well. They did not give up their language from their mother land. This however makes them bilingual. They normally speak English in public places, schools and work. Then when they are home or at other family gatherings they speak mostly Spanish. The Spanish language is an important aspect of the Mexican culture and the United States support and acknowledges this.
Most Mexican Americans are Roman Catholics. Their religious beliefs influence their sexual, educational, and political views. One political issue affecting Mexican Americans directly is the debate on the Mexican American borders and the measures or efforts which are taking place to secure them against illegal immigration. Mexican Americans are the largest subculture of Hispanic Americans. There are all skill types and education levels that give them the ability to locate employment within any...