Mexican Ancestry in the U.S.

Mexican Americans 

Whether born here or not, everyone with Mexican heritage and who lives in the U.S. is a Mexican American.

First Generation Mexican Americans

Bravely crossed the border, bringing their rich culture and strong family values to the U.S. Their resilience and sacrifices laid a foundation for their families in a new country.

Second Generation Mexican Americans

Born and raised in the U.S., they balance their Mexican heritage with an American upbringing. Thanks to their parents’ sacrifices, they are bilingual and bicultural, with the opportunity to elevate their family’s societal status. They remain connected to their Mexican roots while deeply integrating into American society.

Third Generation Mexican American

The grandchildren of those who immigrated, are typically more Americanized, speaking English as their first language, yet they maintain a connection to their Mexican heritage.

Fourth Generation Mexican American

By this time the family is fully integrated into American society. While some Mexican traditions may have faded, the emphasis on strong family values persists.

 

Mexican-Americans are the minority-majority and the backbone of America.

Mexican American Population

  • U.S. population over 334,000,000 (three-hundred thirty-four million)
  • U.S. born population with Mexican ancestry 26,600,000 (twenty-six million six hundred thousand)
  • U.S. population born in Mexico 10,700,000 (ten million seven hundred thousand)
  • The largest of any Hispanic group and the nation’s second largest racial or ethnic group
  • Most Americans with Mexican descent live in California, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, Nevada, Washington, Illinois, Florida, & New York