Mexican-American Generation

Introduction

Mexican Americans faced numerous obstacles from 1940 to 1965. The Great Depression worsened their economic condition and intensified mistrust and resentment of them, particularly in the southwestern states. World War II then brought change and new opportunities, but it sometimes exacerbated tensions as well.

Discussion

There had long been a substantial Hispanic population in the United States, with the annexation of the Southwest from Mexico in the mid-19th century. The beginning of the 20th century witnessed a surge in Mexican immigration. The search for economic opportunities accounted for most of the migration, first in railroad jobs, then as agricultural laborers by the ...