Fred Walk Normal Community High School

Rosales takes the reader through the history of Mexicans and Mexican-Americans from the 1820s through contemporary times -- not an easy task! With independence from Spain in 1821 Mexico acquired a huge chunk of territory that eventually becomes part of the United States. Rosales sets the stage for the Mexican-American civil rights movement quite well by showing the connection between Mexican independence and the Mexican-American war that eventually follows. Racism, economics, politics, migration and land use are intertwined to enlighten the reader of this movement.

The reading provides comprehensive information and insights for the uninformed (myself included) to grasp the essence of the Mexican-American civil rights movement. At times choppy and wordy (I can digest only so many acronyms) the chapters do engage the reader as the story unfolds. I was especially intrigued by the impact that economics and geography had upon this history. Rosales demonstrates how the Mexican worker is expendable in the U.S. labor market. It is remarkable to connect the migration patterns with the expansions and contractions of the U.S. economy. Disposable human resources came to my mind as Mexicans were courted to the U.S. and then merely dismissed when not needed. What if there was not a physical land border between the U.S. and Mexico? How might this have affected the migration? Why are there such distinct regional differences between Mexican-Americans? How might this have impacted the movement? Rosales tapped my curiosity, continuously compelled me to ask questions and speculate on the "what ifs."

Chicano! is an excellent resource for educators for engaging their students in a study of the Mexican-American civil rights movement along with other civil rights movements. The parallels between the African-American movement and Mexican-American movement are readily made through this resource. Comparing and contrasting personalities and major events of the two movements enables teachers to engage their students in reflective learning. Reasons are offered by the author showing why the Chicano Movement was not as central to the American consciousness. Using this resource will provide teachers with an avenue to develop engaging classroom strategies that will enhance student learning.

Overall, I enjoyed reading and contemplating Rosales's work. However, I was underwhelmed with the last chapter, the legacy of the movement. More insights along with an enhanced perspective would have brought more closure. I would recommend all U.S. History teachers read this book to better understand the complexities of the Mexican-American civil rights movement.

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