Student Questions

The Gilded Age (roughly 1877-1900) was a period of immense economic growth, urbanization, and political corruption in the United States. The standing of native Mexicans (often referred to as Mexican Americans or Tejanos in Texas) living in the Southwest during this time was deeply affected by a myriad of social, political, and economic factors.

Land Loss: One of the major issues faced by native Mexicans during the Gilded Age was the loss of land. After the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848, which ended the Mexican-American War, Mexicans living in the newly acquired territories were supposed to retain their property rights. However, legal manipulations, questionable land deals, outright theft, and racial discrimination meant that many Mexican Americans lost their lands to Anglo settlers and speculators.

Labor and Economy: With the advent of the railroad and the increasing demand for labor, many Mexican Americans were absorbed into low-paying, labor-intensive industries. They became miners, ranch hands, and farm laborers, often working under harsh conditions. The railroad, in particular, provided employment opportunities but also played a role in displacing communities.

Social Discrimination: Mexican Americans faced significant discrimination. They were often seen as racially and culturally inferior by Anglo settlers. This discrimination manifested in various ways, including segregation in schools and public places, and violence from vigilante groups.

Political Marginalization: While legally citizens, Mexican Americans were frequently disenfranchised through various means, such as literacy tests, poll taxes, and intimidation. This meant that, politically, their voice and influence were considerably diminished.

Cultural Retention: Despite these pressures, many Mexican American communities in the Southwest worked hard to retain their culture, language, and traditions. They established mutual aid societies, newspapers, and other institutions that served their communities and helped maintain their cultural identity.

Economic Stratification: While many Mexican Americans worked in low-paying jobs, there was some economic stratification within the community. A small number managed to retain or gain land and wealth, especially if they could navigate the legal and economic systems of the Gilded Age. Others set up successful businesses catering to their communities.

In summary, during the Gilded Age, native Mexicans in the Southwest faced significant social, economic, and political challenges. They had to navigate the complexities of living in a rapidly changing nation that often did not fully accept or respect them. However, they also demonstrated resilience, maintaining their culture and, in some cases, achieving economic success despite the odds.