The culture that i have chosen to research is Hispanic Americans. Hispanic Americans are the fastest growing population in the United States and has accounted for more than half of the nations growth in the last decade. Martin and Nakayama define culture as "learned patterns of behavior and attitudes shared by group of people" (88, 2013). Hispanics fit into this definition by having a set of beliefs and values that are specific to their nation, and more specifically their cultural group. There are many aspects that make up Hispanic American culture.
The word 'Hispanic' used to indicate a relationship to ancient Hispania, but in today's modern society it refers to the people and cultures of Spanish speaking, Latin American Countries. Hispanics have strong ties to family, friends, and their community. They tend to be very open and welcome visitors with open arms. The current president of Mexico is Enrique Pena Nieto, who is the 57th President. His 6 year term began just last year in 2012. Most Hispanics practice Catholicism, stemming from their Roman Catholic traditions.
One of their biggest celebrated holidays is Cinco de Mayo. Which is the "Day of the Dead". This holiday commemorates the Mexican Army's victory over France at the battle of Puebla during the Franco-Mexican War. This holiday has also become widely celebrated in the United States, especially the areas with large Hispanic-American populations. Its celebrated with parades, music performances, and street festivals.
One of the biggest historical events that shaped the Hispanic heritage was the Mexican Revolution. The Revolution was a conflict that spanned over two decades. It all started when the ruler Porfirio Diaz Mori took land away from the rural workers and farmers. Mori wanted to industrialize the country, so he needed the extra land to create roads, dams, and factories.
I am going to take an interpretive approach in my journey of learning more about the Hispanic Heritage. It will include observation, research, and interview. From the observations i will collect information about their cultural norms and behaviors. My plan for acquiring an interview is to either go to the Multicultural center on campus and find resources there, or contact one of my out of state friends that has a Hispanic culture.
References:
Martin, J.N & Nakayama T.K (2013). Intercultural Communication in Contexts (6th Ed). New York, NY: McGraw Hill.
A & E Television Networks. (1996). Cinco de Mayo. Retrieved from:
(2011) Hispanic Culture. Retrieved From:
(2003). Mexican Revolution. Oregon Public Broadcasting. Retrieved From:
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