Final answer:
Hispanics are the largest minority group in the United States, accounting for 18.5 percent of the U.S. population. They have surpassed African Americans in numbers and are one of the fastest-growing demographics, influencing many aspects of American life, from politics to education.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hispanics are the largest minority group in the United States, representing a significant portion of the population. Based on the U.S. Census Bureau in 2019, the segment of the U.S. population that self-identifies as Hispanic was estimated at 18.5 percent of the total. This group has seen a considerable increase over the years, showing a substantial growth from less than five percent of the US population in 1970 to about 16 percent in 2010. Hispanics have surpassed African Americans as the largest minority since the 2000 US census and continue to be one of the fastest-growing populations, with a significant impact on the economy, politics, and social life in the United States.
Latinos, often used interchangeably with Hispanics, also have one of the highest birth rates among ethnic groups, and although they have lagged in income and high school graduation rates compared to non-Hispanic Whites, they are enrolling in college at higher rates. Major public debates include topics like immigration reform, the DREAM Act, and policies regarding immigration and border security. It is evident from these figures and trends that the influence of the Hispanic population is critical in shaping various aspects of American society.