The Formation and Solidarity of Puerto Rican National Identity

Date of Award

Spring 2020

Degree Name

Bachelor of Arts

Department

Historical & Political Studies; College of Arts & Sciences

First Advisor

Hilary Parsons Dick

Abstract

Identity remains to be an important, yet, complex process that tends to adapt throughout one’s lifetime due to various reasons. Within Puerto Rico, Puerto Rican national identity is no different. Puerto Ricans have experienced numerous changes within their identity that has shaped their ideologies while under the sovereignty of both the Kingdom of Spain and the United States of America. Focusing on Puerto Ricans within the island of Puerto Rico through several journals and news articles, theories of nationalism and identity, and even documentaries regarding Puerto Rican identity suggest the two main factors that have assisted in shaping Puerto Rico’s national identity; 1) English being enforced onto the island has fueled their desire to speak Spanish rather then English, and 2) the “us vs. them” ideology that have forced Puerto Ricans to not see themselves as United States citizens, as they simply view themselves separate to the United States despite over 100 years of their influence. By making enquires into the factors of Puerto Rican identity, my thesis concludes that the confidence and awareness held by the people of Puerto Rico showcases their willingness to fight for what they believe to be is their national identity.

Comments

International Studies

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The Formation and Solidarity of Puerto Rican National Identity

Identity remains to be an important, yet, complex process that tends to adapt throughout one’s lifetime due to various reasons. Within Puerto Rico, Puerto Rican national identity is no different. Puerto Ricans have experienced numerous changes within their identity that has shaped their ideologies while under the sovereignty of both the Kingdom of Spain and the United States of America. Focusing on Puerto Ricans within the island of Puerto Rico through several journals and news articles, theories of nationalism and identity, and even documentaries regarding Puerto Rican identity suggest the two main factors that have assisted in shaping Puerto Rico’s national identity; 1) English being enforced onto the island has fueled their desire to speak Spanish rather then English, and 2) the “us vs. them” ideology that have forced Puerto Ricans to not see themselves as United States citizens, as they simply view themselves separate to the United States despite over 100 years of their influence. By making enquires into the factors of Puerto Rican identity, my thesis concludes that the confidence and awareness held by the people of Puerto Rico showcases their willingness to fight for what they believe to be is their national identity.