Puerto Ricans: Born in the U.S.A. - Softcover

Rodriguez, C.

Softcover

ISBN 10: 0044970420 ISBN 13: 9780044970422

Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers Ltd, 1989

Synopsis

Dr. Rodriguez offers a broad portrait of one of the largest and most economically disadvantaged segments of the Hispanic-American population: Puerto Ricans living in the continental United States. This timely study looks at the unique position of Puerto Ricans on the mainland--as Spanish-speaking U.S. citizens--and its impact on their daily lives and future aspirations. Professor Rodriguez begins by describing the history and heritage of these "colonial immigrants." She then assesses their current socioeconomic status, using both detailed empirical data and qualitative research findings. In succeeding chapters, she examines implications for Puerto Ricans of such crucial issues as race, gender, education, housing, and the structure of both the U.S. economy and the political system.

About this title

Synopsis

This is a sociological study of the problems confronted by people of Puerto Rican heritage born in the United States. It focuses on New York City where the majority of Puerto Ricans live and addresses issues of race, education, housing, the economic structure and the media. The book describes the colonial background to the Puerto Rican mass immigration to America and looks at the way economic growth favoured the upper-level service professionals and low-skilled labour while most Puerto Ricans fall between these two extremes, as well as other federal policies that affect the Puerto Rican community such as the "pull-out" of training programs, social spending and credentialism. The issue of housing is raised with its associated problems of urban decay, gentrification and the subsequent decline in the South Bronx of one of the largest communities of Puerto Ricans. The author records the valiant efforts of these people to reconstruct their lives in the face of adverse circumstances.

About the Author

Clara E. Rodriguez is associate professor of sociology at Fordham University.

Edition details

• Publisher: HarperCollins Publishers Ltd
• Publication date: 1989
• Language: English
• ISBN 10: 0044970420
• ISBN 13: 9780044970422
• Binding: Paperback
• Edition number: 1
• Number of pages: 220