Asturian Americans
Asturian Americans
Asturian Americans are citizens of the United States who are of Asturian ancestry. The Asturians hail from the autonomous community of Asturias in the north-west of the Iberian Peninsula, which is part of modern-day Spain. This article explores the history, cultural contributions, and notable figures among Asturian Americans, who form part of the larger tapestry of Spanish Americans.
History and Migration
Asturian migration to the United States began during the era of Spanish conquest in the Americas. The first Asturian immigrants arrived in North America as soldiers, officers, and settlers with the Spanish Army following Spain's conquest of territories that are today Florida, Mexico, and the southwestern United States. Some migrated directly to areas that would later become part of the U.S., while others journeyed via Mexico or Cuba.
Cultural Identity
Despite their rich heritage, Asturian Americans have faced challenges in distinctly identifying themselves in official records. The 2010 U.S. Census did not include a specific category for Asturians, compelling them to identify under the broader Hispanic category. This is unlike other ethnic groups, such as the Basques or Scotch-Irish Americans, who are recognized with their own categories.
Notable Asturian Americans
Several Asturian Americans have made significant contributions to American society:
- Martín de Argüelles (1566–1630) was the first known child of European descent born in what is now the continental United States.
- Manuel A. Gonzalez (1832–1902) was an Asturian-born steamship captain and one of the first permanent settlers of Fort Myers, Florida.
- Alfred-Maurice de Zayas (born 1947) is an American lawyer, writer, and historian, recognized as a leading expert in human rights and international law.
- Baldomero Lopez (1925–1950) was a first lieutenant in the United States Marine Corps during the Korean War.
Cultural Contributions
Asturian Americans contribute to the diverse cultural fabric of the U.S. Their influence is evident in various aspects of American life, from cuisine to art, reflecting a blend of Spanish culture infused with American traditions.