Review by Choice Review
Maciel and Gonzales-Berry give voice to a history that has been kept silent for too long. Although Mexican American Hispanics/Latinos have one of the longest tenures in this country, they are neither well known nor understood. While presenting thought-provoking challenges to traditional history, the book provides a historical overview of Hispanic Mexican Americans in New Mexico, Nuevomexicanos. Among the various topics covered is that of securing equal rights in a society that sees the desire to maintain cultural identity as "un-American," "foreign," and "inferior." As the authors point to the unique cultural identity of the Nuevomexicano, they bring to light the reality of diversity within this community. In spite of tremendous opposition, Nuevomexicanos have maintained a strong sense of identity. One understands that this identity has not been a detriment, but rather an advantage. Maciel and Gonzales-Berry have taken one more step to rightfully place the history of the Nuevomexicano where it belongs: in the history of the US. All collections. J. E. Garza University of Texas--Pan American
Copyright American Library Association, used with permission.
Review by Choice Review
