8217;s craft orientation.E. The Mexican American Miners’ Revolt – Gallup, New Mexico, was one of the first mining districts of predominately Mexican workers to rebel. The depression had hit the area severely, and, by August 1933, 2,000 minters were reduced to a two to three day workweek. Unions that promoted policies of ethnic and racial equality attracted Mexicans. The Mexicans concentrated themselves in limited industries. The CIP was essential in the building a strong Mexican American labor movement. Independent unions simply did not have sufficient muscle against the giant corporations.F. Survival in a Failed Utopia: Chicanos in the City – The Mexicans’ struggle for survival was not limited to immigration and/or labor. The 1930’s saw increased urbanization among Mexicans in the U.S. Many new cities comers shifted from the rural Southwest to places like San Antonio, Los Angeles, and Chicago where they formed barrios that reflected the personalities of those cities. Adjustments to the new environment were difficult and increased numbers generated tensions as new and old competed for space.8 World War 11 and the “Happy Days”: Chicano Communities under SiegeA. World War 11 and the Chicano – Many Chicano soldiers felt they experienced betrayal because of the racism at home. They were treated as second class citizens. Mexicans earned more medals of honor than any other ethnic or racial group in WWII.B. The Spy Game – During WWII, police authorities sought to strengthen social control of the barrios and spied extensively on the Mexican community. Despite its thoroughgoing scrutiny of the Chicano activities FBI reports did not uncover any evidence of Mexican American disloyalty. Basically it was a waste of taxpayers’ money.C. Mexican American Workers: The War Years – WWII did not end job discrimination and few Mexicans were employed even in defense industries. Few...
