In today’s society, the United States is comprised of a mixture of Hispanic cultures. Many of these Hispanic cultures share like beliefs, but some also have different values and traditions. The traditions of each of these cultures usually migrate with each Hispanic group, and whether they retain a value to that culture is up to them. Many of these immigrants travel to the United States in search of better jobs and economical benefits, while others are running from political problems within their own nation. Regardless of the reason for migrating to the United States, each culture has settled in to the country with hopes of a brighter future.
The Mexican American culture is currently the largest group of Hispanics in the United States. The Mexican American’s native tongue is Spanish, and they usually retain their native language longer than any other Hispanic culture. Traditional values are very important to this group which includes close family ties. The Mexican Americans are most often found living and working within close proximity to their extended family. This culture is usually very religious and most are Catholic. Keeping their families close together provides the community of Mexican Americans the support for getting and keeping gainful employment as well as the support needed for religious and family traditions. The economical status of the first generation of Mexican American is usually less than half of the average American; however, each generation afterwards tend to improve immensely. With this economic improvement betweenthe generations also comes a decrease in the traditional values and language.
Another well-known Hispanic culture is Puerto Ricans. Puerto Ricans usually speak Spanish with a little knowledge of English, if they are first generation immigrants. This tends to decrease with each generation. The Puerto Rican culture is very family-oriented. Traditional values are important to Puerto Ricans regardless of where they settle; however, just like most of the Hispanic cultures this declines with each generation. Since Puerto Rico is a commonwealth of the United States, all its citizens have US citizenship. This provides an open door for them to visit or move to the continental US without having to officially migrate. Thus, they are able to maintain a residence in Puerto Rico and thereby keeping their native traditions as well as expanding their opportunities in other cities in the US.
The fastest growing Hispanic culture seems to be the Cubans. The primary difference this culture has from the other Hispanic cultures is that these people are refugees and are not allowed to voluntarily leave Cuba. Many have braved certain death just to try to get to this country and leave behind many family members that they may never see again. This culture is extremely family-oriented and they even create their own ethnic communities with their extended family. his helps the Cuban community protect their cultures and traditions, which are very important to their lifestyles, as well as provide aid for newly arrived refugees who need all the basic necessities such as food, clothing, shelter and employment. The first generation of Cuban immigrants usually speaks Spanish, and the second generation usually switches back and forth. According to Altarriba and Bauer, Although this culture seeks success in large cities, their family life and values is most important aspects of their lives. While in Cuba, religion has not been permitted since Fidel Castro assumed power in 1959. Before that time, over 85% were Catholic. (Note: Amanda – do they convert to Catholic once they are here for a while?)
Costa Ricans are now also starting to migrate to America. Although In Costa Rica Spanish is still the primary language, many individuals feel the need to learn English. English has become the first foreign language in this country. Most Costa Ricans are searching for a better economical status in life when they travel to the United States. Previously larger families were part of their culture; however, most Costa Rican families are settling in for a more modern family. Most Costa Ricans are Roman Catholics. The Costa Ricans are openly very religious and practice the Catholic traditions daily.
While they may be religious, most are not financially stable in the United States. Their economic status is better than in their own country; however, in comparison to the average white American they are actually earning a lot less.
The Hispanic cultures of the United States share a lot of the same aspects in the beliefs and cultures. All of the cultures tend to try and remain speaking Spanish at least in their own homes. All Hispanic cultures value family life regardless if the family is small or extended. Most of the Hispanics living in the United States practice the Catholic Religion. Regardless of the differences listed, the most prominent idea that all Hispanic cultures possess is the fact that America offered their family economic and personal benefits better than their own home country.
