Did you know September 15–October 15 is Hispanic Heritage Month in the United States? Hispanic Heritage Month recognizes the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States. Hispanic Americans are people who come from, or whose ancestors come from Spanish-speaking areas, particularly Latin American countries. Nearly one in every 5 Americans claims an Hispanic American heritage (per the 2020 census).
Why does this celebratory month begin on the 15th and not the first? September 15 is the date when, in 1821, Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua gained their independence from Spain. (Mexico’s independence day is September 16, and Chile’s is the 18th).
Beanstack Challenge
To help you explore this part of American culture, we’ve put a little challenge up on the Beanstack app. (No prizes, since this is just for the fun of exploring and celebrating part of American culture!) See if you can earn all of the badges by October 15th! Not familiar with Beanstack? Learn about using Beanstack at our Beanstack Tips and Tricks page!
Read All About It
We asked our experts to compile lists to help you celebrate and explore Hispanic Heritage month through some great books!
Below, you’ll find selections suitable for teens and up. You can CLICK the covers of the book to jump to our catalog, where you can place a hold for pickup or find eBook, eAudio, or Spanish language versions (when available).
