Second-Generation Cubans

Abstract

This article tests the hypothesis that second-generation Cuban Americans have significantly different political attitudes than either their parents or more recent Cuban immigrants to the United States. Using the unique data set provided by the Latino National Political Survey, the article investigates whether or not there are differences between the following three sets of Cuban Americans: those born in the United States, those whofirst arrived in the United States at the age of 10 or younger and those who immigrated to the United States when they were over the age of 10. The authors find significant differences between these three groups in several sets of political attitudes, including partisanship, trust in the federal government, feelings of closeness toward the Cuban American community, and support for increased governmental spending. Interestingly, the authors find no significant differences among Cuban Americans over the question of reestablishing relations with the Castro regime.