History of Mexican Americans in Tucson facts for kids

Tucson, Arizona, has always had a large and important Mexican American community. For many years, people of Mexican descent made up most of the city's population. This community has shaped Tucson's culture and history in many ways.

Tucson's Mexican American Community

The city of Tucson has a deep connection to its Mexican American heritage. This community has been a major part of Tucson since its early days. Many families have lived in Tucson for generations.

A Rich History in Tucson

By the early 1900s, most people living in Tucson were of Mexican or Mexican American background. People whose families have lived in Tucson for a long time often call themselves "Tucsonenses." This special name shows their strong connection to the city. It highlights their local identity and pride in being from Tucson.

Changing Demographics

Over time, the population of Tucson has changed. However, the number of Mexican and Mexican American residents is growing again. They are becoming a larger part of the city's population once more. Tucson is a diverse city with many different ethnic groups living there. Most people in Tucson speak English, and a large percentage are U.S. citizens.

Mexican American Leaders in Tucson

In 2019, Regina Romero was elected as the mayor of Tucson. A mayor is the top leader of a city's government. This was a very important moment because no Mexican American had been mayor of Tucson since 1875. Back then, Arizona was not yet a state; it was a U.S. territory. In 1875, Estevan Ochoa won the mayoral election by a lot of votes. Regina Romero's election shows the continued importance and influence of the Mexican American community in Tucson.