Hispanics in the U.S. economy /

This publication of the University of Wisconsin's distinguished Institute for Research on Poverty is the outgrowth of a national Hispanic Labor Conference in 1982. It is edited by an economist, Borjas, and a sociologist, Tienda. These 11 essays differentiate the various Hispanic nationalities (Mexican, Puerto Rican, Cuban, Central and South American); seek explanations of the differences; and attempt to develop and use a broader theoretical framework for analyzing the process by which Hispanics enter and participate in the labor market as well as the process of adjustment that occurs in that market with large shifts in supply. After an integrating introduction, three essays focus on earnings and labor supply; two on youth employment and education; two on female labor supply, fertility, and occupations; and three on labor market studies: one relates immigration and settlement; a second is a case study of Hispanics in New York, 1960-80; the third is a fascinating examination of immigration and entrepreneurship in the New York City apparel industry. Some conclusions: success in the labor market varies with nationality; low wages of many Hispanics are caused more by limited education than by discrimination. There is a growing literature of highly specialized studies, but none is comparable to this valuable introduction both to the labor market experience of our fastest growing minority and to the methodology of relevant theory. Abundantly documented with tables, references, and index and readily accessible to undergraduates, it is strongly recommended for academic and other libraries.-R.E. Will, Carleton College