National Hispanic Heritage Month Facts

National Hispanic Heritage Month, which was created in 1968, is observed annually starting on Sept. 15 and running through Oct. 15. The celebration is designed to call attention to Hispanic culture and to spread the word about notable Hispanic personalities, past and present, as well as events in Hispanic history.

Features

National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated through a variety of venues, publications and events. For example, libraries feature books by Hispanic authors, concerts feature Hispanic music, and museums focus on Hispanic artists.

Geography

National Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated in the United States and reflects Mexican ancestry, as well as the heritage of those from Spain, South America, Central America and the Caribbean.

Significance

Several Latin American countries, including Costa Rica and El Salvador, celebrate their independence on Sept. 15. Mexico and Chile's independence celebrations fall a few days later.

History

President Lyndon Johnson declared a Hispanic Heritage Week in 1968; in 1988, President Ronald Reagan extended the official celebration to National Hispanic Heritage Month.

Benefits

While Hispanics celebrate their culture, non-Hispanics are given an opportunity to expand their knowledge of the cultural history and contributions of a people that make up a large segment of the American population.

Resources

• Facts and bibliography