Chicanos and Their Impact in U.S. Comedy

• This presentation will give a brief history of Chicanos in comedy • It will also spotlight some of the most famous and impactful Chicano comedians • Racial stereotypes within comedy routines will be discussed • Finally, I will analyze the impact these comedians have in U.S. culture Early History of Chicano Comedy • Films originally portrayed Chicanos as thieves, bandits, savages, gangsters, or the helpless in need of Anglo assistance • Because of discrimination, Chicanos didn’t get the opportunity to exercise their comedy • The first Chicano to break mainstream was “Cheech