By the early 1800’s Puerto Rico was truly a melting pot. A “melting pot” is a place where people of many nations and cultures live together. People from Spain had taken the island from the indians. They were joined by Spanish people from the Canary Islands, the Dominican Republic, Haiti and Venezuela. Settlers from other lands and African slaves also became part of the growing population.
The dominant surviving elements of Puerto Ricans race and culture were those brought by the Spaniards who began to populate the island at the beginning of the sixteenth century. The language and religion of Puerto Rico, traditional relationships among people, is essentially Spanish.
Puerto Rican Families
A deep attachment to family life is the most outstanding characteristic of Puerto Rican society. The family structure is a tight one. Puerto Rican children and young adults cherish the love and approval of their parents. This extends well beyond the immediate family. Respect for grandparents, aunts, uncles and distant relatives is a way of life for the Puerto Rican people. The family is the first loyalty of the Puerto Rican.
Dignidad
or dignity is also important to most Puerto Ricans. They desire it in themselves and respect it in others. Anyone can have dignity if he does his work well and fulfills his obligations to family and friends. Respect is what one owes to the particular dignity of every person, especially parents, teachers, and persons in authority.
The home is the center of social life. Most people prefer to celebrate birthdays, weddings, anniversaries etc. at home rather than in public places. Music, dance and food play an important role in Puerto Rican festivities.
The family provides a type of support system on the island in time of great stress. In Puerto Rico history, family life has helped to unify the people. Changes in the American family unit have affected Puerto Rico in recent years, and Puerto Rican values have changed slightly. Nevertheless, the home continues to be a place of comfort warmth and family solidarity.
Intermarriage between Puerto Rico’s original Indians, Whites, and Black inhabitants has made Puerto Rican society a mixture of races.
Activities
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Have students share family pictures with the class.
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Have students write about their family.
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Recommended Filmstrips (May be obtained from the New Haven Public Schools Audiovisual Department)
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“Puerto Rico” (i,m)
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“Man and His Music” Puerto Rico (2fs-lr) (i,m)
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