AbstractsSociology

Shades of belonging : the influence of immigration and race on Mexican-American identity

by Ingjerd Skafle




Institution: University of Oslo
Department:
Year: 1000
Keywords: VDP::020
Record ID: 1285870
Full text PDF: https://www.duo.uio.no/handle/10852/25467


Abstract

This thesis aims to examine Mexican-American identity with regard to two particular factors: immigration and race. First, Mexican immigration has been a contentious topic ever since Mexicans started to migrate to the United States, and today Mexicans form the largest immigrant group in the United States. How does the flow of immigrants from Mexico influence the identity of Mexican Americans? Examining previous immigration debates regarding the invasion from the South, one finds that the same arguments have been repeated: The immigrants will displace American workers and place an increased financial burden on state and local governments. However, explanations are found in other aspects than increased competition for jobs, housing, and government resources. Second, The United States is indeed a racially conscious country, and this thesis looks at how Mexican-American identity is influenced by the concept of race.