The history of the Portuguese community in the United States is rich and multifaceted. Today, it is estimated that over 1.3 million people of Portuguese descent live in the U.S., including direct immigrants and multi-generational Luso-Americans. This diaspora originates from various historical periods and regions of Portugal, with a strong presence along both the East and West coasts of the country.
An Ancient Historical Connection with the Portuguese Community in the United States
The relationship between Portugal and the United States is long-standing and significant. Portugal was the first neutral country to recognize American independence shortly after the Revolution. The first documented Portuguese presence in the U.S. dates back to 1634, with Sephardic Jew Mathias de Sousa, considered the earliest known Portuguese in colonial America.
Even earlier, in the early 16th century, Portuguese explorers Miguel Corte Real and João Rodrigues Cabrilho explored parts of North America and California, leaving historic traces such as the Dighton Rock in Massachusetts.
During the colonial period, small groups of Portuguese settlers in the U.S. established communities on islands like Martha’s Vineyard and Nantucket, mainly dedicating themselves to fishing.
Migration Patterns of the Portuguese Community in the United States
The effective emigration of Portuguese citizens to the United States intensified in the 19th century, particularly among Azoreans and Madeirans. These immigrants established vibrant communities in New England, especially in cities such as:
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New Bedford, Fall River, and Taunton (Massachusetts)
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Providence and Pawtucket (Rhode Island)
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Newark (New Jersey)
On the West Coast, many Portuguese residents in the United States settled in California, particularly in San José, San Diego, and the agricultural regions of the Central Valley. Active communities were also formed in Hawaii, Oregon, and Washington.
The Azores Refugee Act and Growth in the 20th Century
A significant milestone was the Azores Refugee Act of 1958, introduced by John F. Kennedy following the eruption of the Capelinhos volcano in the Azores. This act facilitated the entry of hundreds of Azorean families into the U.S., setting a precedent for future migration waves.
The Immigration Act of 1965 further increased the legal entry of Portuguese immigrants, especially throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Many newcomers worked in sectors such as fishing, the textile industry, agriculture, and local commerce.
Today’s Community: Numbers and Distribution
According to the 2000 U.S. Census and updated estimates, over 1.3 million people of Portuguese origin reside in the United States. Here are the states with the highest concentrations:
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California: 330,974 (1% of state population)
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Massachusetts: 279,722 (4.4%)
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Rhode Island: 91,445 (8.7%)
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New Jersey: 72,196 (0.9%)
Portuguese communities are found in nearly every U.S. state, with hundreds of clubs, associations, and cultural centers preserving Portuguese heritage.
The Cultural Legacy of the Portuguese Community in the United States
Among the most remarkable cultural contributions of the Portuguese in the U.S. are:
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The ukulele, a popular instrument in Hawaii, which originated from Madeira.
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Composer John Philip Sousa, son of a Portuguese immigrant, known for his famous patriotic marches.
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Linguistic and toponymic influences in areas with strong Portuguese presence.
Portuguese surnames were often anglicized:
Silva → Silver, Rodrigues → Rogers, Madeira → Wood, among others.
🇵🇹 A Legacy That Lives On
The history of the Portuguese in the United States reflects resilience, integration, and pride in their roots. Over the centuries, this community has not only grown in number but also developed a unique identity—both Portuguese and American.
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