Bracero+Program+-+1930s+and+1940s

__Definition:__ Bracero means laborer, derived from the Spanish word for arm, “brazo”. During the start of World War II the demand for agricultural production increased while the amount of workers decreased because of the better paying jobs in the army. Thus, the Bracero Program was formed to allow Mexican nationals the ability to work in the United States until the demand for workers diminished
 * The Bracero Program **

__Historical Background:__ · Began in 1942, shortly after America became involved in World War II  · Need for agriculture development increased with the war and created economic crisis · Mexico agreed with United States to let workers stay temporarily during America’s struggle · Woman were not included, only male workers were allowed · Lasted from 1942 – 1947 when wartime shortages no longer existed · During this time about 220,000 braceros were employed under this program · During the next four years about 200,000 documented workers entered the United States with minimal help from the American and Mexico government · When conflict with Korea broke out in 1950, America showed interest in another large-scale labor importation · Mexico felt their workers in America deserved more rights and suggested a return to the previous program · Then in 1951 the two countries agreed to the Migratory Labor Agreement · This program ended in 1964 and employed almost 3.5 million Bracero workers

__Positives of this Program:__ · Provided opportunity for workers in another country · Helped jumpstart America’s economy · Cheap labor for American farmers While there are less positives then negatives, many would argue these positives are vastly important and out-weigh the negatives. __Negatives of this Program:__ · Many argued it took work from Americans · Braceros were taken advantage of because farmers were responsible for adequate pay and living · Brought down wages for Americans · Diminished working conditions The link below portrays the process of a Mexican-American entering into the Bracero Program: __http://gateway.proquest.com/openurl?url_ver=Z39.88-2004&res_dat=xri:ho-us&rft_dat=xri:ho:sup_ref:hmaA0000423__