Celebrating Hispanic Heritage | People & Places | Smithsonian Magazine: In 1968, President Lyndon Johnson proclaimed National Hispanic Heritage Week to honor the contributions of Americans who trace their roots to Spain, Mexico, the countries of Central and South America and the Caribbean. Twenty years later, Congress extended this recognition into an annual month-long celebration, from September 15 through October 15.
In honor of this year's National Hispanic Heritage Month, Smithsonian.com discusses the changing demographics of the United States, talks with comedian George Lopez on humor and race, remembers a historic Little League Baseball team and highlights the food of Hispanic culture. In addition, Smithsonian.com offers a list of festivals, concerts and lectures at the Smithsonian Institution and throughout the country.
