Chicano, Mexican American, and Immigration History

Bracero Program

A U.S.-Mexico labor program from 1942 to 1964 that brought Mexican workers to the U.S., mainly for farm labor. Workers often faced low wages, poor housing, and exploitation. It is significant because it shaped Mexican migration and U.S. agricultural labor.

Brown Berets

A Chicano activist group formed in the 1960s. They fought police brutality, racism, poor schools, and discrimination against Mexican Americans. They are significant because they promoted Chicano pride, self-defense, and political activism.

Union Farm Workers, UFW

A labor union led by César Chávez, Dolores Huerta, and others to organize farmworkers. The UFW used strikes, boycotts, and marches to demand better wages and working conditions. It is significant because it connected labor rights with Chicano civil rights.

National Chicano Moratorium

A major 1970 anti-Vietnam War protest by Chicano activists. Protesters argued that Mexican Americans were being drafted and killed at high rates while still facing racism at home. It is significant because it linked antiwar activism with Chicano civil rights.

Ruben Salazar

A Mexican American journalist who wrote about Chicano issues, racism, and police brutality. He was killed by police during the 1970 Chicano Moratorium. He is significant because his death became a symbol of police violence and Chicano resistance.

War Brides Act of 1947

A law that allowed foreign spouses and children of U.S. soldiers to immigrate to the United States after World War II. It is significant because it shaped postwar immigration and family migration, especially for Asian and Latina women married to U.S. servicemen.

Model Minority

A stereotype that Asian Americans are naturally successful, hardworking, quiet, and obedient. It is harmful because it hides racism, ignores differences within Asian American communities, and is used to compare minority groups against each other.