Tejanos

2011-03-01 10:41:24

Tejanos most often refers to Mexican-origin residents of Texas, both native and foreign born, and the unique culture they created. In most cases, it is interchangeable with Texas Mexicans or Mexican Americans living in Texas. Strictly speaking, however, Mexican Americans would only apply after 1845 when the Republic of Texas (see Republic of Texas) joined the United States, making all Mexicans there citizens of the United States.
Tejano culture is rooted in its Spanish and Mexican history prior to 1836 and constantly fed by new immigrants from Mexico. Between 1900 and 1929, 65 percent of all Mexican immigrants crossed the border at Texas.
See also Hispanic and related terms.