In September 1968, Congress authorized President Lyndon B. Johnson to proclaim National Hispanic Heritage Week, which was observed during the week including Sept. 15 and Sept. 16. The observance was expanded in 1988 to a month-long celebration reaching from September 15 to October 15.

America celebrates the culture and traditions of U.S. residents who trace their roots to Spain, Mexico, and the Spanish-speaking nations of Central America, South America and the Caribbean. Sept. 15 was chosen as the starting point for the celebration because it's the anniversary of independence of five Latin American countries: Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on Sept. 16 and Sept. 18, respectively.

The U.S. is a nation of immigrants. Many of the largest groups have created their own personal ethnic celebrations and some of these have evolved into national celebrations: African-American History Month (February); Irish-American Heritage Month (March); Asian/Pacific American Heritage Month (May); and American Indian/Alaska Native Heritage Month (November).

With so many recent immigrants from Spanish-speaking countries across the U.S., Hispanic American celebrations are important ways to foster understanding and appreciation of their contributions and culture.

Activity: Follow these pathfinders to resources:

• Topics tab
• Type Hispanic American Culture
• Hispanic Americans AND Culture
• Hispanics
• Narrow by Related Topic

Assign students to research a topic connected with the Hispanic American heritage: entertainers, holidays and celebration, music, literature, history, business owners, marketing and advertising, politicians, sports figures, scientists, inventors, traditions, immigration, recreation, etc. Students should use at least three resources in creating a summary of information on the topic assigned.

If students create two- to three-minute PowerPoint or traditional oral reports, they can share what they learn with others in the class. State standards in language arts require that students learn and practice the presentation skills necessary for future success in school, college, and careers in the 21st century.

Each summary should include reference to information about specific events, people, historical background, successes, uniqueness, and impact on American culture.