The Chicano Movement

Term Paper # 116950

Ethnic Studies > North American

An exploration of the ideological goals and political program of the Chicano movement in the US.

1,353 words () | 2 sources | MLA | 2009 United States

Paper Summary:

The paper explores the ideals of Chicanos, those who actively support and propagate the idea of the Mexican American as a distinct social group with a unique and special culture. The paper discusses how defense of culture is the prime motivation of the Chicano movement and focuses on the Plan de Aztlan that identifies the ideological framework and also political program of the Chicano Movement. The paper then discusses how this may be a useful document to profess the necessity of Chicano nationalism and pride, but its steps of action if taken would only lead to the destruction of the Chicano culture and life. The paper concludes with the assertion that it is the responsibility of Mexican Americans, as with any cultural minority, to maintain their beliefs and culture through pride in their heritage.

From the Paper:

"The culture of Mexican Americans is one of variance and differing opinions. There are some who recognize their heritage but continue about life as if it did not matter, while others take active pride in their heritage. A third piece of the Mexican American population is that of Chicanos, those who actively support, and propagate, the idea of the Mexican American as a distinct social group with a unique and special culture. The defense of culture is the prime motivation of the Chicano movement, with many supporters from various realms of life, some more extreme than others, but nonetheless supportive of their collective heritage."

Sample of Sources Used:

Anaya, Rudolfo A. Lomeli, Franciso A. "Aztlan: Essays on the Chicano Homeland." Documents of the Chicano Struggle. Pathfinder Press, 1971.
Penalosa, Fernando. "Toward an Operational Definition of the Mexican American." Chapter I: Rejecting the Liberal Agenda. Chapter II: Reinterpreting the Chicano Experience.