Latino history is American history. Latinos trace their origins to Latin America and other Spanish colonies, both in the Caribbean and in the contemporary United States. These groups include, but are not limited to, Indigenous, Mestizos, Afro-Latinos, and other mixed-race people. Currently representing the largest ethnic minority in the country, Latinos have participated in the creation and growth of this nation well before it was named the United States. Complex stories of colonization, immigration, and slavery make Latino history an infinite source for inquiry and knowledge. Explore many complex Latino narratives through our exhibits, collections, archives, programs, and blogs.

Visit the Program in Latino History and Culture website to learn about the Museum’s efforts to support and expand Latino scholarship. 

Podcasts

Al Cine Vámonos - Braceros (November 14, 2016)

Pedro Pan (August 31, 2016)

Diosa Costello (August 16, 2016)

Videos

A Conversation with John Leguizamo (December 6, 2018)

Latino History

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From Our Blog

Lobby cards for the film "Saludos Amigos"
Donald Duck: An American Diplomat?
In his 1933 inaugural speech, President Franklin D. Roosevelt promoted the importance of the Good Neighbor Policy. When Roosevelt delivered his speech, few would have guessed that, just a few years later, Donald Duck would become an "ambassador at large" to facilitate U.S. policy.
Two advertisements for the 1947 Amateur World Series with cartoon illustrations of a baseball pitcher and catcher
Baseball in December: Leopoldo Martinez and the 1947 Amateur World Series

Over seventy years ago, in 1947, Jackie Robinson became the first African American athlete to play in the World Series, having famously broken the color barrier in Major League Baseball earlier in the year.

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