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Ethnicity

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Definition:

ethnicity (n) a term which represents social groups with a shared history, sense of identity, geography and cultural roots which may occur despite racial difference

Let's consider Puerto Ricans as an example of an ethnicity. Many Puerto Ricans represent various blends of White, Red and/or Black races and yet they refer to themselves collectively as Boricuas

. Despite color difference, Puerto Ricans share an ethnicity. Ethnicity shapes a group's culture - the food, language, music, and customs.

Many Whites do not consider themselves to be "ethnic" or to have an ethnicity although all of us do! Whether you come from an Italian background, an Irish background, or a combination of the two, these ethnic cultures have most likely played a very important role in shaping how you view, interpret, and interact with the world.
Also Known As: Compare with the definition of Race

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