Why Are Americans Not All Mixed Race?

Throughout history, the concept of mixed race has evolved significantly in the Americas. The term mestizo, for instance, originally referred to a mix between Spanish and native populations but has often been misunderstood or misrepresented. This article explores the historical context that shaped the current mixed race population in the United States and the Americas, and why the perception of 'all Americans being mixed' does not always apply.

Historical Background: The Mestizo Legacy

The United States has a long-standing history with the concept of mixed race. However, the term mestizo is more accurately used to describe individuals of Spanish and native descent, rather than solely Spanish. This terminology became widespread in the Americas, particularly in the region now known as Latin America. Indigenous people, as well as the survivors of the bubonic plague, have often been labeled as a mix of indigenous and Spanish or Moorish ancestry.

Ancestral Migrations and Plagues

Before the arrival of Christopher Columbus in 1492, the indigenous populations of the Americas lived in relative isolation. However, the effects of European colonization, particularly in the regions that would become the United States and Latin America, were devastating. The smallpox and other European diseases brought to the Americas led to the decline of indigenous populations. Estimates suggest that between 90-98% of the indigenous population of Northern Mexico and surrounding areas perished. This led to a large-scale mixing of indigenous and European blood, particularly within the mestizo population.

The Census and Taboos

The U.S. census, like many censuses taken by colonial and local leaders, has historically conflated different racial categories. For centuries, Moreno or dark-skinned slaves were often counted as mestizos, and this practice continued until the late 20th century. Even educated and well-traveled individuals were often categorized under various mixed-race groups, regardless of their ancestry.

This Merging of Groups

The confusion and blending of racial categories have led to a complex and often misunderstood population. In what the U.S. refers to as Latin America, the populations can be broadly categorized as follows:

46% Western European and mostly Iberian 48% Moreno and mixed individuals 6% Everything else, including fully indigenous, African, Middle Eastern, and East Asian heritage

The term 'indio' originally meant indigenous, and it has been used to describe both native populations and those of mixed indigenous and European descent.

Colonial Warfare and Racial Perceptions

Before the arrival of Europeans, most of the indigenous populations were not mixing with European settlers. In fact, the United States has a long history of conflict with the Moors, with the last Moorish caliphate being defeated by Spain in 1492, the same year Columbus 'discovered' America. Spanish society was deeply rooted in seeing dark-skinned people as enemies. This perception evolved over time, and while there was some mixing between white men and African women, the desire to avoid mixing with indigenous populations often prevailed.

Resistance and Disease

One notable effect of the lack of mixing is the resistance of indigenous populations to European diseases, such as those introduced by settlers. Despite efforts to forcibly integrate indigenous peoples into European societies, many remained resolute in their indigenous identities. For instance, people of Sub-Saharan African descent within the United States would be considered mulattos in Iberian-affiliated American countries. However, the resistance to mixing was likely beneficial in the long run, as it allowed for greater resistance to foreign illnesses.

Conclusion and Reflection

The historical context of race in the Americas is complex and multifaceted. While the mixed race identity is indeed significant, it is not a universal concept. The evolution of racial categories and the history of colonialism have shaped the complex tapestry of American identities. This article highlights the disparities and misunderstandings that arise from a monolithic view of the mixed race population.