The Filipino Americans

Filipino Americans emigrated from a nation that has a special relationship with the United States, dating from 1898 to 1946, when the Philippines was a U.S. colony. After a brief account of Philippine history, The Filipino Americans introduces a diverse immigrant population, with accounts of students, sailors, war brides, and nurses who arrived before 1965. Legislation in 1965 encouraged immigration of professionals, predominantly physicians and nurses, and permitted them to bring relatives. Posadas shows how these new Americans attempted to retain Philippine values and customs amid American economic, political, and cultural life. Family issues discussed include education and the model minority, gangs, divorce, and aging in a different culture. In addition, future immigration is an important topic, as many kin are left behind. The final chapter on Filipino American identity has particular relevance with today's multicultural debates. Tables, photos, a glossary, and biographical profiles complement this outstanding look at these new Americans.