Final answer:
The Spanish-speaking population of the United States has seen significant changes since the 1960s, with the total Hispanic population tripling during this time. Factors such as the end of Castro's prohibition against Cubans leaving the island and increased immigration from Latin America have contributed to this growth.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Spanish-speaking population of the United States has seen significant changes since the 1960s. The total Hispanic population tripled during this time, growing from an estimated 3 to 9 million residents. This increase was due to various factors such as the end of Castro's prohibition against Cubans leaving the island, which allowed many Cubans to come to the United States, as well as increased immigration from Latin America to the United States. The Hispanic population has also experienced growth in states outside of California and Texas, especially in the South.