In 3–5 sentences, differentiate between cultural assimilation and cultural accommodation. Focus on how Tejanos reacted to the newly dominant Anglo-American culture after Texas became a U.S. state. (4 points)

1 answer

Cultural assimilation refers to the process by which a minority group adopts the cultural norms and values of the dominant group, while cultural accommodation involves preserving aspects of one's own culture while also adapting to the dominant culture. In the case of Tejanos in Texas, many initially resisted full assimilation into Anglo-American culture after the state became part of the U.S. Some Tejanos chose to accommodate by learning English and participating in Anglo-American cultural practices, while still holding onto aspects of their own identity such as language, music, and traditions. This dual process of accommodation and resistance allowed Tejanos to maintain a sense of cultural pride and heritage while also navigating the shifting social dynamics of their new status as a minority group in a newly dominant culture.