These numbers are substantially larger at the present time. For many years Mexicans in the United States have been somewhat of a mystery in the history books. Today they represent a virtually unknown factor to national decisionmakers and social scientists. I have noted that in Washington. New York. and other places far removed from the Southwest. the term "Mexican" often evokes the image of a Mexican contract laborer. The Mexican population of the Southwest. long an integral part of America. is little known on the east coast and not much better understood in the Southwest itself. Books in the public libraries and the
Identified stereotypes
The term 'Mexican' often evokes the image of a Mexican contract laborer.