Abstract

This paper begins with a historical overview of the immigration/migration experiences of Mexicans, Puerto Ricans, and Cubans to the United States. The second part of the paper examines recent data comparing the three groups with respect regional distribution, education, income and occupation patterns, and martial status. Differences are noted among the three groups. The discussion section examines the concept of "Hispanic" as a viable intellectual construct. The paper suggests that such a pan-ethnic term may have more use as a political construct than a valid sociological concept.