Emerging from the ruins of Aztec civilization and from centuries of Spanish contact with indigenous people, Mexican culture followed the Spanish colonial frontier northward and put its distinctive mark on what became the south-western United States. This book tells the story of Mexicans in the United States.

AcknowledgmentsIntroduction 1. Spaniards and Native Americans, Prehistory-15212. The Spanish Frontier, 1521-18213. The Mexican Far North, 1821-18484. The American Southwest, 1848-1900 5. The Great Migration, 1900-1930 6. The Depression, 1930-1940 7. The Second World War and Its Aftermath, 1940-1965 8. The Chicano Movement, 1965-1975 9. Goodbye to Aztlan, 1975-1994 10. The Hispanic Challenge, 1994-PresentAppendix A: NACCS Scholars of the Year Appendix B: Hispanic-American Medal of Honor Recipients Appendix C: Mexican-American Historical Novels Notes Bibliography Index

"A must-read book for anyone interested in Southwest history." * Albuquerque Journal *"Gratifyingly well written and illustrated, and featuring an extensive index and bibliography, Mexicanos is highly recommended for general readers, historians, and professors of Chicano studies." * California History *"This book is definitely one that you need on your bookshelf." * Low Rider Magazine *"It is a page-turner that reads more like a novel than a history book.... The book provides insight into a people non-Mexicanos should see, not as interlopers, but as the latest wave in a centuries-old migration of people and culture, and a movement that is parallel to the great western expansion from the east. " * Contra Costa Times *"[A] general history survey must be accurate, compelling, and inclusive of all matter of historical and cultural experiences. To its credit, Mexicanos provides exemplary balance and perspective. " * New Mexico Historical Review *"Stress on facts and chronology make for clear explanations, especially for those just becoming acquainted with Mexican American history." * Journal of American Ethnic History *"The best short introduction yet to the history of Mexicans in the U.S. could not have come at a better time." * Arkansas Democratic-Gazette *"Gonzales' book should be of much interest." * Tucson Weekly *