Past Displays - Books: Hispanic Heritage Month

National Hispanic Heritage Month celebrates the histories, cultures, and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean, and South America. Originally, it began as only a week, but was expanded to a month in 1988. The choice of beginning this celebration on September 15 is significant because it is the anniversary of independence for Latin American countries Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua. September 16 and September 18 are respectively the independence days of Mexico and Chile, beginning the heritage month with something to celebrate.