Costa Rican Americans facts for kids

Costa Rican Americans are people in the United States who have roots in Costa Rica. They are part of the larger group of Americans with Latin American heritage. Many Costa Ricans have moved to the U.S. over the years, bringing their culture and traditions with them.

Who Are Costa Rican Americans?

Costa Rican Americans are U.S. citizens or residents who were born in Costa Rica or whose families came from there. They are a small but important part of the U.S. population. In 2018, there were about 154,784 Costa Rican Americans. This means they make up about 0.05% of all people in the U.S.

Where Do They Live?

Most Costa Rican Americans live in a few main areas. The largest groups can be found in the New York Metro Area. Other big communities are in Greater Los Angeles and South Florida. These areas often have strong ties to Costa Rican culture.

Languages and Beliefs

Many Costa Rican Americans speak both American English and Spanish. Spanish is the official language of Costa Rica. Most Costa Rican Americans are Roman Catholic. This is the main religion in Costa Rica. Some are also Protestant.

Notable Costa Rican Americans

Many people of Costa Rican descent have become well-known in the United States. They have made important contributions in many fields. These include science, politics, and entertainment.

Leaders in Science and Space

One famous Costa Rican American is Franklin Chang Díaz. He is a brilliant mechanical engineer and physicist. He also became a NASA astronaut! Franklin Chang Díaz flew into space seven times. This is a record for spaceflights. He is a great example of someone reaching for the stars.

Influential Figures in Politics

Sonia Chang-Díaz is a notable politician. She represents the 2nd Suffolk District in the Massachusetts Senate. A state senator helps make laws for their state. Sonia Chang-Díaz works to improve the lives of people in Massachusetts.

Another important figure is Christiana Figueres. She served as the Executive Secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change. This means she played a big role in global efforts to fight climate change. She helped countries work together to protect our planet.

Stars in Entertainment

The entertainment world also has Costa Rican American talent. Madeleine Stowe is a well-known actress. She has starred in many movies and TV shows. Her performances have earned her much praise.

Heather Hemmens is another talented individual. She is an American actress, film director, and film producer. This means she not only acts but also helps create movies and shows behind the scenes.

Images for kids

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  Madeleine Stowe, an actress, at the 2014 Toronto International Film Festival.

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  Franklin Chang Díaz, a mechanical engineer, physicist, and former NASA astronaut.

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  Sonia Chang-Díaz, a politician who represents the 2nd Suffolk District in the Massachusetts Senate.

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  Christiana Figueres, who was appointed Executive Secretary of the UN Framework Convention on Climate Change.

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  Heather Hemmens, an American actress, film director, and film producer.

See also

In Spanish: Inmigración costarricense en Estados Unidos para niños