Latino Culture
Hispanic Heritage Month History
Hispanic culture is a rich and integral part of the United States, evolving over the years with the increasing migration of individuals from Latin American countries such as El Salvador, Colombia, Peru, Venezuela, and many others. Today, across the U.S., vibrant Latino communities proudly celebrate their roots, sharing customs and traditions that enrich the cultural fabric of the nation.
Left: Traditional Jalisco, Mexico Ribbon DressRight: Traditional Chiapas, Mexico Dress
However, it wasn’t until the 1960s that Hispanic heritage began to receive broader recognition and acknowledgment from the U.S. government. This shift marked a significant milestone in celebrating the contributions of Hispanic Americans to the nation
The term Hispanic emerged in the 1970s as a way to categorize individuals from Spanish-speaking countries. It’s important to note that this term is primarily used in the United States and other English-speaking countries. In contrast, Spanish-speaking nations often use the term Latino to refer to individuals of Latin American heritage.
History Of Hispanic Heritage Month
The formal celebration of Hispanic heritage began with Hispanic Heritage Week, introduced in June 1968 by California Congressman George E. Brown. The effort to recognize the Hispanic community’s contributions gained momentum during the civil rights movement of the 1960s, a time of heightened awareness of the diverse identities that shape the United States.
President Lyndon B. Johnson, a Texas native and advocate for Hispanic rights, signed the bill establishing Hispanic Heritage Week into law on September 17, 1968. In his first proclamation for the observance, Johnson stated:
"It is with special pride that I call the attention of my fellow citizens to the great contribution to our national heritage made by our people of Hispanic descent — not only in the fields of culture, business, and science, but also through their valor in battle."
Hispanic Heritage Month, celebrated from September 15 to October 15, continues to honor the profound influence of Hispanic Americans on the nation’s history, culture, and achievements.
The largest Latino immigrant populations in the United States primarily come from Mexico, with over 11 million people, followed by countries like El Salvador, Guatemala, and Honduras, each with populations exceeding a million. Other significant groups include Cuban, Dominican, Colombian, and Venezuelan immigrants, with strong communities in states like Florida, California, and New York. These populations contribute greatly to industries such as agriculture, construction, healthcare, and business, while also enriching U.S. culture through their diverse traditions, languages, and customs.
Here are some of the common traditions celebrated in the US by migrants from different countries:
Cultural and Heritage Celebrations.
Three Kings’ Day (Día de los Reyes) (January 6)
Popular among Latino immigrants, especially Puerto Rican and Mexican communities, this day celebrates the arrival of the Wise Men with gifts and special pastries like the "Rosca de Reyes."
Día del Niño (Children's Day) (April 30)
Originating in Mexico, this day celebrates children with special events, activities, and family gatherings.
Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15 – October 15)
Celebrates the histories, cultures, and contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans, beginning on September 15, which coincides with the independence anniversaries of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua.
Cinco de Mayo (May 5)
Although more widely celebrated in the U.S. than in Mexico, this day honors the Mexican victory at the Battle of Puebla. The widespread recognition of the day in the USA began with beverage companies promoting it as a marketing initiative.
Independence Days of Latin American Countries (Fiestas Patrias)
(September 15-18)
Immigrant communities often organize parades, festivals, and gatherings to commemorate the independence of their home countries, such as Mexico (September 16), Chile (September 18), and others.
Día de los Muertos (Day of the Dead) (November 1-2)
A Mexican tradition honoring deceased loved ones, celebrated with altars, offerings, and cultural events.
Las Posadas (December 16-24)
Celebrated in Mexican and Central American immigrant communities, reenacting the journey of Joseph and Mary searching for shelter, culminating in gatherings with food, music, and prayer.
Cultural Identity & Community
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Hispanic
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Latino
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Latinx
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Boricua (Puerto Rican)
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Chicano/Chicana (Mexican-American)
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Afro-Latino
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Latinx: A gender-neutral term for Latino/a, emphasizing inclusivity.
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Afro-Latino: Refers to individuals of Latin American heritage with African ancestry.
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Mestizaje: The blending of Indigenous, European, and African cultures in Latin America.
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Boricua: A term used by Puerto Ricans to identify with their heritage.
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Tejano: Refers to Mexican-Americans living in Texas.
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Nuyorican: A term for Puerto Ricans living in or from New York City.
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Pachucos: Associated with Mexican-American youth subculture, especially the zoot suit era in the 1940s.
Cultural Trends & Movements
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Latinidad: Encompasses the shared identity, culture, and solidarity within the Latino community.
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La Raza: Meaning “The People” or “The Race,” a term symbolizing unity and pride among Latinos, particularly Mexican-Americans.
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El Movimiento: Refers to the Chicano civil rights movement.
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Spanglish: The mix of Spanish and English, commonly spoken in Latino communities in the U.S.
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Machismo: A concept of traditional masculinity in Latin American cultures, often discussed critically.
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Marianismo: The counterpart to machismo, referring to traditional expectations of femininity, often linked to the Virgin Mary.