Portuguese Americans

Touro Synagogue, Newport, Rhode Island

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Cabrillo National Monument (Loki30)

PeterFrancisco

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JohnPhilipSousa-Chickering.LOC

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Church of the Five Wounds, San Jose, California

Justice Benjamin N Cardozo 2

Portuguese Americans are American citizens whose ancestry originates wholly or partly from Portugal. They are a part of the broader Lusophone community around the world, which includes people of Portuguese descent living in countries such as Canada, France, and Brazil. Portuguese Americans have contributed significantly to various sectors of American society, including politics, the economy, and culture.

History

The history of Portuguese Americans begins in the 18th century, with the earliest settlers arriving in the United States from the Azores and Madeira, islands that are autonomous regions of Portugal. These early immigrants primarily settled in the northeastern part of the United States, including Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New Jersey. The 19th and early 20th centuries saw increased migration from Portugal to the United States, with many Portuguese immigrants seeking better economic opportunities and escaping political turmoil in their homeland.

Demographics

According to the United States Census Bureau, there are approximately 1.3 million Portuguese Americans in the United States, making up about 0.4% of the total U.S. population. The states with the largest populations of Portuguese Americans are California, Massachusetts, and Rhode Island. Within these states, communities such as Fall River and New Bedford in Massachusetts, and San Jose in California, have significant Portuguese American populations.

Culture

Portuguese American culture is a rich tapestry that reflects the traditions, languages, and customs of Portugal. Festivals like the Feast of the Blessed Sacrament, held annually in New Bedford, Massachusetts, showcase the vibrant culture, food, and music of the Portuguese community. Portuguese Americans have also made their mark in American cuisine, with dishes such as bacalhau (dried and salted cod) and caldo verde (kale soup) becoming popular in areas with large Portuguese populations.

Notable Portuguese Americans

Several Portuguese Americans have gained prominence in various fields. In politics, John Philip Sousa, the famous composer and conductor known for his American military marches, was of Portuguese descent. In the realm of literature, John Dos Passos was a celebrated American novelist and journalist with Portuguese heritage. Additionally, in the sports world, Tony Coelho, a former United States Congressman, has been an influential advocate for people with disabilities and is of Portuguese descent.

Organizations and Associations

There are numerous organizations and associations within the United States that cater to the Portuguese American community. These include the Portuguese American Leadership Council of the United States (PALCUS), which aims to address the community's political and social issues, and the Luso-American Education Foundation, which focuses on educational and cultural initiatives.

Conclusion

Portuguese Americans play a vital role in the cultural and social fabric of the United States. Their contributions to American society are a testament to the diverse heritage and rich traditions of the Portuguese people. As the community continues to grow and evolve, the influence of Portuguese Americans is likely to expand in various sectors of American life.