Chasing the illusive American dream: an historical analysis of Mexican-American education, employment, and culture

Abstract

The objectives of this study include the identification of the effects of history on contemporary Mexican immigration in the areas of education, employment and culture. Beginning with a detailed historical background of Mexican immigration, including information concerning female Mexicans coming to America, I have explored the current situation of Mexican-Americans in relation to their situation throughout the twentieth century. This thesis also addresses issues in the education of Mexican-Americans, including difficulties faced in receiving formal education, the effectiveness of bilingual education, and educational legislation. Another chapter focuses on Mexican-American levels of employment, dual wage systems, and other obstacles involved in the ability of this ethnic group to find and retain employment. Also considered are the changing roles of Mexican-American women within the family, racism against Mexican-Americans, and the position of Chicanas within the Chicano Movement. Using a literature review of archival texts, oral histories, social and political historical works, and journal articles, I have extrapolated and analyzed the given data in order to recommend legislative and social actions that could improve the problems facing Mexican-Americans. Also, I have proposed suggestions for future research, including areas of information where there is a lack of documentation and studies that might be conducted to better comprehend various aspects of Mexican immigrant life.