The Return Of Juan Seguin: Latinos and the Remaking of American politics

The Return Of Juan Seguin: Latinos and the Remaking of American politics

By: Mikaila Barillas, Sophia Ybanez, Alejandro Puente

5 main ideas

1. Juan Singuin and his impact on Latinos and the forgotten history in the American Governemnt
2. the expanding growth in Latino Political power
3. the important periods of Latino political engagement
4. Operations and encouragement of making a difference
5. The challenges, defiance, and future unpredictability

The expanding growth in Latino political power

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Originally, the majority of Latino immigrants were concentrated on low wage jobs and had very little representation in the government. However, over time they built social institutions that became the foundation for political mobilization.

The Civil Rights and Labor Movement (1960's)

Voting and Representation

By the late 20th century, Latinos became the largest minority group, giving into better opportunities and as generations of U.S. born Latinos grew, so did voter participation, now being able to elect their own representatives. One of these representatives being Sonia Sotomayor, earning a spot in the supreme court.

This movement took place between 1960 and 1970 and helped Latinos gain control and visibility over politics. the leaders were Cesar Chaves and Dolores Huerta, two farm workers and activists tired of the supression against the Latino community as well as Puerto Rican activist fighting for fair employment, housing rights and bilingual education.

Juan Singuin and his impact on Latinos and the forgotten history in the American Governemnt

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Jaun Seguin was part of a small group of Mexican who had joined in a Texas rebel at the Alamo; right before the siege happened he had to deliver a message to Sam Houston leading him to escape. He had also fought at the battle of San Jacinto, then was later elected a Senator of the Texas Republic, which he then served several terms as Mayor of San Antonio. Until in 1842 newcomers held him at gunpoint, seized his land, forced him to move back to Mexico. Leaving him the last Mayor of San Antonio until Henry Cisneros took office 140 years later. Seguín will be recognized as a symbol of Latino politics.

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The important periods of Latino political engagement

Early 20th century (1900-1940's)

Little to no political power due to lack of citizenship, voting rights, and discrimination

The 80's and 90's

The rapid growth within the Latino community was quickly reflected amoung political outcomes as voter turn out and representatioin increased

Post- WWII Era (1940's - 1960's)

Latino war veterans returned from the war and demanded equality

Civil rights and chicano movement (1960's - 1970's)

The 2000's

Latino population became one of the most important votes in politics and in multiple occasions demonstrated their political power throught protests and mobilizations, always having a common interest, immigration rights.

Pushed for labor rights and political representation. After the success of these movements, Latinos were able to vote for representation in the government.

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Operations and encouragement of making a difference

1. Formation of community and advocacy groups – Since the 1970s, Puerto Ricans and other Latino groups started organizations focused on helping their communities, registering voters, and fighting for civil rights. These groups, like the National Puerto Rican Coalition and the Puerto Rican Legal Defense and Education Fund, provided structure and resources so Latinos could organize and take action in their cities and states.

2. Legal battles and strategic alliances – Latino organizations worked in courts to fight unfair voting district boundaries. These efforts led to more Latino representation in city councils and state legislatures in places like New York and Chicago. Alliances with African American leaders helped Latino candidates gain influence and achieve electoral success, showing the power of collaboration.

3. Historic achievements and inspiration for the community – The nomination of Sonia Sotomayor to the Supreme Court symbolized the political progress of Latinos nationwide. It showed that Latinos could reach the highest positions in government, motivated more people to participate in politics, and emphasized that individual and collective action could create meaningful change in American society.

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The challenges, defiance, and future unpredictability

1. Voter suppression laws (2003–2006) – States like Florida, Ohio, New Mexico, and Arizona made it harder for people to register to vote. They said it was because of voter fraud, but studies (Carter-Baker 2005, Brennan Center) showed almost no fraud. This made it hard for Latino voters to have a say.

City conflicts between groups – In Miami, Cuban Americans and African Americans fought over political power in the 1970s–1980s. For example, Puerto Rican leader Mauricio Ferre worked with black voters to balance Cuban conservative influence.

Problems in coalitions (1980s–1990s) – Jesse Jackson tried to unite blacks, Latinos, and whites with his Rainbow Coalition, but different needs and fights for jobs caused divisions. For example, after Chicago Mayor Harold Washington died in 1987, some Latino leaders like Luis Gutiérrez joined old political groups instead.

Latino politicians in scandals – Some Latino leaders got in trouble, which made people trust them less. Examples: Eddie Perez, mayor of Hartford, arrested in 2009; Hiram Monserrate, NY state senator, expelled in 2009. This showed that politics for Latinos can be tricky and unpredictable.

Quotes

MI 1.)"Seguín is the forgotten father of Latino politics in the United States."

MI 1I.)"“A wise Latina woman with the richness of her experiences would more often than not reach a better conclusion than a white male who hasn’t lived that life.”-Sonia Sotomayor

MI 1II.)“It is more likely an individual will be struck by lightning than that he will engage in voter fraud.”-Brennan Center

Thank you

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