A comparison study of nationalist ideologies among Afro-Americans and Puerto Ricans
The objective of this investigation is to describe and analyze the concept of nationalism among Afro-Americans and Puerto Ricans. Nationalism means basically a collective state of mind or consciousness in which people believe their primary duty and loyalty is to the nation-state. Often nationalism implies national superiority and glorifies various national virtues. Thus, I will make a comparison of the principal political similarities and differences that these groups have. In the case of Afro-Americans, I will look for the historical development of black nationalism and the implications of this school of thought. On other hand, I will describe and analyze Puerto Ricans nationalism, and the implications it has in the struggle to resolve the political self-determination issues of the island. The methodology of my research is an historical review and public opinion analysis using at least data from the Latino National Political Survey, 1989-90, and the National Black Politics Study, 1993-94. I will explain the most important factors (economic and political) that shape the claims for nationalism (independence vs. autonomy) among Afro-Americans and Puerto Ricans. In conclusion, the importance of this research is to achieve a broad understanding of the different conflicts and struggles of Afro-Americans and Puerto Rican nationalists. Overall, I seek to have a better comprehension of the political thought of these groups and the most important factors that affect and determine their claims inside and outside the American political system.
School:
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Department:
Political Science
Research Advisor:
Todd Shaw
Department of Research Advisor:
Political Science
Year of Publication:
2002