Becoming Mexican American: Ethnicity, Culture, and Identity in Chicano Los Angeles, 1900-1945 [Paperback]

George J. Sanchez (Author)

Book Description

Publication Date: March 23, 1995 | ISBN-10: 0195096487 | ISBN-13: 978-0195096484 | Edition: Reprint

Twentieth-century Los Angeles has been the locus of one of the most profound and complex interactions between variant cultures in American history. Yet this study is among the first to examine the relationship between ethnicity and identity among the largest immigrant group to that city. By focusing on Mexican immigrants to Los Angeles from 1900 to 1945, George J. Sánchez explores the process by which temporary sojourners altered their orientation to that of permanent residents, thereby laying the foundation for a new Mexican-American culture. Analyzing not only formal programs aimed at these newcomers by the United States and Mexico, but also the world created by these immigrants through family networks, religious practice, musical entertainment, and work and consumption patterns, Sánchez uncovers the creative ways Mexicans adapted their culture to life in the United States. When a formal repatriation campaign pushed thousands to return to Mexico, those remaining in Los Angeles launched new campaigns to gain civil rights as ethnic Americans through labor unions and New Deal politics. The immigrant generation, therefore, laid the groundwork for the emerging Mexican-American identity of their children.

Editorial Reviews

Review

"Becoming Mexican American makes a significant contribution to Chicano historiography through its examination of the dynamics of Mexican American life in Los Angeles....Sánchez should be praised for this important and carefully written book. It is a dynamic portrayal of the social and political transformation of Mexican immigrants into a well-defined Mexican American community in Los Angeles."--New Mexico Historical Review

"A fascinating and richly textured study of Chicanos in the urban setting of Los Angeles....It is...the best study available on the experiences of the Mexicans in Los Angeles, especially on their struggle for equality and justice."--ILWCH

"Monumental....Inviting reading....A consummate scholar and masterful storyteller, Sánchez rediscovers the missing threads and restores the vibrant colors in the fabric of Los Angeles."--Los Angeles Times

"A brilliant historical study of Hispanic asimilation, resistance, and self-reflection in Los Angeles."--Tikkun

"Becoming Mexican American is a remarkable chronicle of Mexican history and influence in the United States. Written with a compelling combination of heart and insight, this study rounds out and redefines the role of Mexicans, Mexican Americans, and Chicanos from our nation's past. In Becoming Mexican American George Sánchez has narrowed a mighty void in American history."--Xavier Becerra, Member of Congress, 30th District, California

About the Author

George J. Sanchez in Associate Professor of History, University of Southern California.

Product Details

• Paperback: 400 pages
• Publisher: Oxford University Press, USA; Reprint edition (March 23, 1995)
• Language: English
• ISBN-10: 0195096487
• ISBN-13: 978-0195096484
• Product Dimensions: 6.1 x 1 x 9.2 inches
• Shipping Weight: 1.2 pounds (View shipping rates and policies)
• Average Customer Review: 4.5 out of 5 stars  See all reviews (4 customer reviews)
• Amazon Best Sellers Rank: #81,549 in Books (See Top 100 in Books)
  • #45 in Books > Politics & Social Sciences > Social Sciences > Emigration & Immigration

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Most Helpful Customer Reviews

9 of 9 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars Amazing March 23, 2006

By N. Osorio

Format:Paperback

This book is essential for a student of American immigration or ethnic history, ESPECIALLY those who are interested in California and the Western United States. It provides a solid foundation to understand Southern California and immigration from mexico in the first half of the 20th century. Being a native of Los Angeles, i was amazed at the detail and complexity of this history. Truly a wonderful book, only after you finish it can you appreciate its throughness. HIGHLY RECOMMENDED

15 of 18 people found the following review helpful

5.0 out of 5 stars A Great Cultural Historical Analysis April 23, 2000

By n/a

Format:Paperback

This is an incredibly rich and well thought out book on an often neglected area of American History. Sanchez assumes a strong background in Historical and Cultural studies that I initially found difficult. Once I worked through it though it was well worth the effort. It was one of those rare books that I felt a better rounded historian after reading as well as more knowedgable about the subject. Keep a close eye one the way that he defines culture throughout the book in both Mexico and LA.

4.0 out of 5 stars i am excited about it May 21, 2013

By s.mathews

Format:Paperback|Amazon Verified Purchase

I am thrilled to get this book. Have been wanting to find out about what my parents experienced during the 20's, 30's & 40"s.