NSSH HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH

National Hispanic Heritage Month traditionally honors the cultures and contributions of both Hispanic and Latino Americans as we celebrate heritage rooted in all Latin American countries. During this month join in paying tribute to the generations of Hispanic Americans who have positively influenced and enriched our nation and society.

1. National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated from September 15 to October 15

2. National Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America

3. The observation started in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon Johnson

4. It was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 30-day period

5. It was enacted into law on August 17, 1988

6. The day of September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua

7. In addition, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on September 16 and September 18, respectively

8. Also, Columbus Day or Día de la Raza, which is October 12, falls within this 30-day period

9. The Law Library of Congress has compiled guides to commemorative observations, including a comprehensive inventory of the Public Laws, Presidential Proclamations and congressional resolutions related to National Hispanic Heritage Month

10. Images, photos and teachers’ resources about National Hispanic Heritage Month are available at https://www.hispanicheritagemonth.gov/

Teaching Books

https://hispanicheritagemonth.gov/

Smithsonian Institution of Heritage

National Endowment for the Humanities

Primary Sources

A Month of Ideas

Celebrating Hispanic Heritage

Census Bureau

Facts about U.S. Latinos