Mexican Food In America

History does not always repeat itself, but on numerous occasions, it comes very close. If any evidence is necessary for one to believe the concept of repetitive history, look no further than past anti-Chinese immigration sentiments and current anti-Mexican immigration sentiments in America. Moreover, since food and culture are inextricably intertwined, the stereotypes many Americans have for immigrants is reflected in how Americans treat and perceive immigrants’ cultural cuisine. As stated in the film The Search for General Tso, authentic Chinese food was considered scary and unappealing when Chinese-American relations were tense, but when positive diplomacy was reinstated, the cuisine became popular again. Currently, however, Mexican-American relations are strained and Mexican food is facing the consequences. Similarities between the political standing and economic status of Mexico and China are made apparent by viewing and analyzing the current treatment and regard for Mexican food in US through the lens of …show more content…
Since food is an integral part of culture, one can clearly see the trends between Chinese-American relations and Chinese food treatment and perception in America, and such a relationship is outlined in the film The Search for General Tso. With the current anti-Mexican immigrant sentiment being expressed in the US, Mexican food is also being used as a medium to express stereotypes and discrimination. The current treatment and regard for Mexican food in the US can be observed with respect to how Chinese food was treated in the 20th century, and many similarities between the political standing and economic status of the countries are brought to light. Predictions for the future of Mexican-American relations are possible, assuming that history repeats itself, but it is yet undetermined if the taco will one day find itself on the same level as General Tso’s