Intro
What does it really mean when we say Puerto Rico is American?
From the landing of U.S. troops in 1898 to the modern-day presence of federal agencies, Puerto Rico’s relationship with the United States is as complex as it is defining. In this episode of Chronicles and Cocktails, host Josué Vázquez Cruz, The Spirited Historian, explores how the island became part of the American fabric—politically, militarily, and culturally—while sipping a bold Café con Ron cocktail.
From 1898 to 1952 — Becoming American
Puerto Rico officially entered the U.S. orbit in 1898 after the Spanish–American War.
The Foraker Act of 1900 replaced military rule with a U.S.-controlled civil government, followed by the Jones Act of 1917, which granted U.S. citizenship to Puerto Ricans.
By 1952, with the approval of the island’s Constitution under Public Law 600, the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico (Estado Libre Asociado) was born.
⚖️ Law, Citizenship & Responsibility
Puerto Ricans hold U.S. citizenship, serve in every American war since WWI, and participate in the federal economy—yet the island remains an unincorporated territory.
Citizens can vote in primaries but not in presidential general elections; they elect a Resident Commissioner to Congress with limited powers.
Still, Puerto Rico is deeply tied to U.S. law, culture, and defense.
🛡️ Federal Presence on the Island
The island hosts branches of nearly every major U.S. agency:
- U.S. Border Patrol (Ramey Sector) – the only sector outside the mainland.
- Customs & Border Protection Air and Marine Operations, U.S. Coast Guard San Juan, FBI, DEA, ATF, and U.S. Marshals.
- Puerto Rico Army National Guard, federalized when needed.
Puerto Rico even serves U.S. foreign policy objectives—most recently as a logistical hub in regional efforts regarding Venezuela and other Caribbean operations.
🏛️ Culture & Identity
Spanish and English are both official languages.
La Fortaleza, the governor’s mansion, is the oldest executive residence in continuous use in the Western Hemisphere and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
From salsa and reggaetón to baseball, fashion, and art, Puerto Rican culture is woven into the American story.
☕ The Café con Ron Cocktail
A mix of aged Puerto Rican rum, espresso, and orange peel symbolizes the blend of bold flavors that define Puerto Rico’s American identity—bitter and sweet, strong yet smooth.
Watch the full episode on YouTube:
👉 Chronicles and Cocktails
Related Links:
- ✨ Fiesta Bar PR – Bartending Classes & Experiences
- 📘 Garabatos: Mi Ruta Hacia Ti by Josué Vázquez Cruz (on Amazon)
- 📰 UTUADOHOY.com – Community News & History of Puerto Rico
Hashtags:
#PuertoRicoHistory #ChroniclesAndCocktails #PuertoRicoUSA #CafeConRon #AmericanHistory #PuertoRicoCulture #BadBunny #TravelPuertoRico #Utuado #FiestaBarPR #CaribbeanHistory #USHistory #SpiritedHistorian #GarabatosBook