Mexican-Americans in WWII: Active Participation Despite Hardships

show their loyalty. Gonzales also explains that joining the army further validates the machismo psyche prevalent in many Mexican-American communities (162). However, it is important to note that Mexican-Americans did not serve merely as additional support to the US army. Their war strategies and techniques were essential to the battle. The fact that many Mexican-American soldiers received valor medals and recognition demonstrates their significant roles in World War II (Gonzales 162). On the other hand, although the Second World War had a harmful impact on many, including in the United States, it also sparked cultural and social awareness among Mexican-Americans.

The military engagement of Mexican-Americans facilitated their interaction with fellow individuals from the same ethnic background. Due to the shared experiences and historical origins, a sense of belongingness and social cohesion was cultivated. Additionally, the focus on developing war-related skills within the military helped alleviate discrimination and racism. Consequently, this situation greatly influenced the lives of numerous Mexican-American soldiers, providing them with an opportunity to reaffirm their identities and cultural practices. Hence, it can be argued that one of the significant impacts of World War II on Mexican-Americans was the chance to confront challenges related to reconstructing and forming their identities.

Furthermore, the G.I Bill, also known as the Servicemen’s Readjustment Act of 1944 (Metller 16), played a crucial role in improving the lives of Mexican-Americans by empowering veterans to purchase homes and pursue higher education degrees (Castillo 54). The substantial number of Mexican-American youth who served in World War II took advantage of the educational opportunities provided by the G.I Bill, resulting in a significant boost to their involvement in American society.

The rise in the number

of Mexican-Americans attending schools and universities led to a gradual resolution of issues related to student discrimination and segregation (Meier ; Gutierrez 252). Their exposure to diverse theories, ideas, and principles also contributed to the improvement of their self-awareness and activism (McKenzie 93). Furthermore, the growing presence of educated Mexican-Americans created more opportunities for them in the labor market beyond traditional blue-collar jobs. However, it is important to acknowledge that World War II had both positive and negative effects on the economic status of Mexican-Americans. While it provided greater advantages for some individuals, it widened the gap between middle-class and working-class Mexicans. The poorest individuals remained at the bottom rung on the economic ladder, and many were not enticed by the prospect of enduring subjugation despite gaining economic benefits (Hartman 37).

Additionally, the US' Bracero program resulted in various job opportunities that placed Mexican-American workers in difficult positions (Menchaca 124). World War II had both positive and negative effects on Mexican-Americans. On one hand, it drastically transformed their ideology, politics, and culture and redefined their societal roles. However, it also caused internal conflicts and divisions within the Mexican-American community, which continue to challenge their social cohesion.