Final answer:
The question discusses the demographic shift in the U.S with the Hispanic population growing to 18.5% in 2019, from less than five percent in 1970. The growth is significant in states like California and Texas and is influencing the economy, politics, and social life of the nation. This ethnic group consists mostly of people of Mexican, Puerto Rican, or Cuban origin, with a mix of native-born individuals and immigrants.
Step-by-step explanation:
The student's question relates to the Hispanic population in the United States and can be categorized under Social Studies, particularly demographics and immigration patterns relevant from high school education.
Hispanic Population Growth in the United States
There has been a considerable demographic and social shift with the increase in the Hispanic population in the USA. In 1970, Hispanics comprised less than five percent of the US population. Fast forward to 2019, and the U.S. Census Bureau reported that 18.5 percent of the population self-identified as Hispanic. A majority of these individuals are of Mexican, Puerto Rican, or Cuban origin, with almost three-quarters reporting such ancestries. Additionally, the Hispanic population has expanded not only in traditional states like California and Texas but also remarkable growth has been witnessed throughout the Southern states.
By 2010, the Hispanic population reached 16 percent of the US population, making it the largest ethnic minority in the country. The influence of the Hispanic population can be seen in various aspects like the economy, politics, and social life, especially in states with large Hispanic demographics such as California, where over one-third of the population is Hispanic.
Furthermore, Hispanics in the United States comprise a mix of native-born individuals and immigrants, with significant numbers coming from Mexico and other places such as Puerto Rico, Cuba, and the Dominican Republic. This diversity has led to variations in Hispanic consumer power and political influence, as seen with initiatives such as boycotts that have resulted in employment agreements favorable to Hispanic workers.
Lastly, the growth of Hispanic consumers and the Hispanic vote has made this demographic an important segment for both the economy and political strategists, highlighting the crucial role of Hispanics in contemporary U.S. society.