Puerto Rico: Politic and Economic Situation (essay) by Pedro Merino

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Puerto Rico: Politic and Economic  Situation (essay)

   Latin American nations have dreamed of doing business with American administrations. Not all Latin Americans have been able to have that privilege. Through military bases, Americans have influenced the political and the economic life around the world. Puerto Rico is an example.  For that reason, I will argue on three elements: should Puerto Rico be a free associated state, become a state of the US, or be independent?
   The Free Associated State was established in 1952, and Puerto Ricans were given the privilege to enter and leave the U.S. without a visa or passport. They also enjoy the rights of U.S. citizens; except Puerto Ricans who are living on the island cannot vote in presidential elections, but they do not pay federal taxes.
   With respect to the Statehood, the political landscape is entering a major dispute. The advantages of Puerto Ricans will be to become the largest Hispanic group in the U.S. power. There are also disadvantages: they will pay federal taxes, the U.S. Government will eliminate the Spanish language, and Puerto Ricans may not be able to preserve their traditions. In addition, many companies are going to leave the island to avoid paying federal taxes, which would increase unemployment.

   Their independence is another element that is supported by some people on the island. However, Puerto Ricans know that separatists can bring the country into bankruptcy. Their socialist ideas could further destabilize the economic recovery. Independence would really be the last option for the Puerto Rican people.
   I agree that this Hispanic nation has benefited during these decades of its existence as a Free Associated State. The island is higher than many Latin American nations in almost all aspects (political, economic, social, and cultural), therefore encouraging immigration from neighboring countries in search of employment.

Nota: partes del ensayo (introducción, desarrollo y conclusiones) que son impartidas en escuelas y colegios de EE.UU.