Final answer:
Puerto Ricans living in East Harlem forty years ago held jobs in the service sector, manufacturing, and construction. They encountered discrimination but contributed to the economy and culture despite lower wages and poor working conditions. Women often worked in domestic service, healthcare, and education.
Step-by-step explanation:
Forty years ago, Puerto Ricans living in East Harlem likely held a variety of jobs in the formal economy. As US companies expanded their operations in Puerto Rico and subsequently in American cities, Puerto Ricans were often recruited and migrated to these urban areas. While they faced significant discrimination, with instances of being barred from certain establishments and voting restrictions, they took on jobs available in their new communities.
In East Harlem, jobs in the service sector, manufacturing, and construction would have been common among Puerto Rican immigrants. Women, in particular, might have found employment in domestic service, healthcare, retail, or education. Given the patterns of employment among various immigrant groups during that time, it is also possible that many worked in factory jobs, similar to other immigrant communities, or took on roles in New York's thriving garment industry. The Harlem Renaissance, a bit earlier, had also opened doors for a diverse workforce and cultural expression within the neighborhood's evolving demographics.
Overall, while job opportunities were available, they were often marked by lower wages and poor working conditions compared to jobs held by the native-born or non-Hispanic white population. Nonetheless, Puerto Ricans in East Harlem managed to make a living and contribute significantly to the local economy and culture despite the challenges of their time.