Portuguese Americans facts for kids
| português-americanos luso-americanos |
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|---|---|
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| Total population | |
| Portuguese ancestry 1,373,147 (2015) 0.4% of the US population |
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| Regions with significant populations | |
| California, Florida, Hawaii, Massachusetts, New York, New Jersey, and Rhode Island, among others. | |
| Languages | |
| Religion | |
| Predominantly Roman Catholic |
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| Related ethnic groups | |
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Portuguese Americans (Portuguese: português-americanos), also known as Luso-Americans (luso-americanos), are citizens and residents of the United States who are connected to the country of Portugal by birth, ancestry, or citizenship. They are an important part of the diverse population of the United States. Many Portuguese Americans have family members who came from Portugal. Others were born in Portugal and moved to the U.S.
Contents
Portuguese Americans in the USA
Portuguese Americans are people living in the United States who have roots in Portugal. They make up a small but important part of the U.S. population. In 2015, about 1.3 million people in the U.S. said they had Portuguese ancestry. This means about 0.4% of the country's population has Portuguese heritage.
A Journey to America
Portuguese people have been coming to America for a very long time. Some of the first Portuguese explorers visited North America centuries ago. However, most Portuguese immigrants arrived in the U.S. in the late 1800s and early 1900s. They came seeking new opportunities and a better life.
Why They Came
Many Portuguese immigrants came from the Azores and Madeira islands. These islands are part of Portugal. Life there was often difficult, with limited jobs and resources. The United States offered a chance for work and a brighter future.
- Whaling Industry: In the 1800s, many Portuguese sailors worked on whaling ships. These ships often docked in New England ports like New Bedford, Massachusetts. Some sailors decided to stay in the U.S.
- Farming and Fishing: Later, many Portuguese immigrants found work in farming, especially in California. Others continued fishing, particularly in coastal areas.
- Economic Opportunity: The main reason was always the hope of earning more money. They wanted to send money back home to their families. They also hoped to build a new life for themselves in America.
Where Do They Live?
Portuguese Americans live all across the United States. However, some states have much larger Portuguese communities than others.
- Northeast: States like Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and New Jersey have large Portuguese populations. Cities such as New Bedford, Fall River, and Newark are well-known for their vibrant Portuguese neighborhoods.
- West Coast: California also has a significant number of Portuguese Americans. Many settled there to work in agriculture.
- Hawaii: Interestingly, Hawaii has a long history of Portuguese immigration. Many came to work on sugar cane plantations in the late 1800s.
- Florida: In recent years, more Portuguese Americans have moved to Florida.
Culture and Traditions
Portuguese Americans have kept many of their traditions alive. They celebrate their heritage through food, music, and religious festivals.
Food and Flavors
Portuguese cuisine is a big part of their culture. It often features seafood, especially codfish (bacalhau). Other popular dishes include:
- Caldo verde: A delicious green soup with kale and sausage.
- Chouriço: A type of smoked sausage.
- Malasadas: Sweet fried dough, similar to donuts.
- Pastéis de Nata: Creamy custard tarts.
Music and Dance
Traditional Portuguese music, like fado, is very emotional. It often tells stories of longing and fate. Folkloric dance groups, called ranchos folclóricos, perform traditional dances in colorful costumes. These groups help keep the culture alive for younger generations.
Religious Festivals
Many Portuguese Americans are Roman Catholic. Religious festivals are very important events. One of the most famous is the Feast of the Holy Spirit (Festa do Espírito Santo). This festival celebrates the Holy Spirit and includes parades, food, and community gatherings. Another important celebration is for Our Lady of Fatima.
Contributions to America
Portuguese Americans have made many contributions to the United States. They have enriched American society in various fields.
- Work Ethic: They are known for their strong work ethic. They have contributed to industries like fishing, farming, and manufacturing.
- Culture: They have added to America's diverse cultural fabric. This includes their food, music, and community spirit.
- Public Service: Many Portuguese Americans have become leaders in politics, business, and education. They serve their communities and the nation.
Images for kids
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Monument to Portuguese-American Veterans in New Bedford, Massachusetts
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Rancho Folclórico of Pawtucket march in the 2021 Bristol Fourth of July Parade
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Many houses and apartments in The Ironbound neighborhood of Newark, New Jersey are embellished with elaborate azulejos. One common image is Our Lady of Fatima, seen here.
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Largest self-reported ancestry groups in New England. Americans of Portuguese descent plurality shown in grey.
