Latinos in Nevada

Book excerpt: Throughout history, the Latinx population has contributed substantially to Nevada’s mining, railroad, farming, ranching, and tourism industries. Latinos in Nevada provides a comprehensive analysis of this fastest-growing and diverse ethnic group, exploring the impact of the Hispanic/Latinx population on the Silver State in the past, present, and future. This extensive study by a distinguished and multidisciplinary team of scholars discusses the impact of the Latinx population from the early development of the state of Nevada and highlights their roles in society, as well as the specific implications of their growing presence in the state. It also contemplates the future of the Latinx population and the role they will continue to play in politics and the economy. This in-depth examination of a large and relatively understudied population will be of interest to scholars and students who study disparities in health and education opportunities as well as the political and economic climate among Latinos and other groups in Nevada and beyond. A political, economic, and demographic profile, this book: Explores the history, growth, and diversity of the Latinx population. Draws on an array of census data, voter surveys, statistics, interviews, and health, education, employment, wages, and immigration statistics. Evaluates key trends in employment, education, religion, and health. Analyzes the dynamics of political participation, including implications of a growing Latino political electorate in a western swing state. Assesses key determinants of health disparities, educational inequities, and civic engagement among Latinos in the state. Demonstrates the impact of the Great Recession of 2008 and provides a preliminary assessment of the COVID-19 pandemic on Latino employment.