ABSTRACT
As you might have already noticed, you can see and feel the presence of the Latino/Hispanic culture and the Spanish language everywhere in the US, from rancheras (Mexican native songs) in Virginia and Georgia, to salsa (Caribbean rhythm) in New York and Miami; Spanish radio stations in Chicago, New Mexico, and Texas; and reggaeton (a mix of reggae and salsa music) in Missouri, Orlando, and Los Angeles. Who has not enjoyed the delicious tacos, burritos, and arroz con frijoles (rice with beans) in restaurants throughout the nation? Who has not heard the captivating rhythms of Ricky Martin, Gloria Estefan, Marc Anthony, Jennifer López, Santana, Enrique Iglesias, Daddy Yankee, and Shakira? And who has not seen actors like Raúl Juliá, Andy García, Benicio del Toro, Penélope Cruz, and Javier Bardem on the big screen, in films made by the likes of Alejandro González Iñárritu (Babel), Pedro Almodóvar (Volver), Alfonso Cuarón (Children of Men), and Guillermo del Toro (Pan’s Labyrinth)? What baseball fan has not heard of Sammy Sosa, Roberto Clemente, Alfonso Soriano, Roberto Alomar, Iván Rodríguez, Rod Carew, Fernando Valenzuela, Nomar Garciaparra, Alex Rodríguez, Alfonso Soriano, and Carlos Beltrán? And what about famous boxers such as Oscar de la Hoya, Tito Trinidad, Julio César Chávez, Roberto Durán, Héctor “Macho” Camacho, and Miguel Cotto? The Latino/Hispanic culture is gradually increasing its presence in our lives, and as a result, influencing and enriching our US culture. Its contributions have spiced up the US and added an exquisite flavor to the already eclectic and diverse US culture.
