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I just look illegal

changing the American perception of Latinos through Major League Baseball

For over 100 years, baseball has been an important part of American culture, and it is still often considered America's national pastime. Although originally a white, Anglo-Saxon sport, it has become more international over the years, and with that Major League Baseball has gotten a more diverse group of athletes. However, integration within the sport has taken a long time. Minorities like African Americans, as well as most Latinos and Asians, were excluded from Major League Baseball for a long time, until the signing of Jackie Robinson broke the color barrier in 1947. Nowadays, Latinos are the largest minority in American baseball, and they are starting to get accepted as equals. Whereas they first had to deal with a lot of racism from both their teammates and the fans, they are now considered heroes by many as they are helping their employers achieve success. This status of 'hero' is in sharp contrast with the way in which Americans look upon the average Latin immigrant. There have always been many negative stereotypes within the American perception of Latinos. There are still many debates on the 'illegal Latin immigrant', and on whether changes need to be made to the American immigration policy which has not been altered since 1965. Now that Latinos have become an important part of America's national pastime, this thesis investigates their history and status within the game, and tries to answer to what extent these Latin players, who are seen as role models by many, have the ability to change the American perception of Latinos for the better.

Uitgever(s): Universiteit van Amsterdam,

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I just look illegal : changing the American perception of Latinos through Major League Baseball

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Auteur(s)

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Timon Priem

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Verenigde Staten van Amerika
honkbal
immigratie
integratie
maatschappelijke integratie
minderheidsgroepen
scripties
voorbeeldgedrag

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