What does hyphenated American mean?

"Hyphenated American" is a term that describes an American who identifies with a specific cultural or ethnic group *in addition to* their American identity. It's often used to describe people who are immigrants or descendants of immigrants.

Here are some examples of how "hyphenated American" is used:

* "African-American": This term describes people who identify as both American and of African descent.

* "Italian-American": This term describes people who identify as both American and of Italian descent.

* "Asian-American": This term describes people who identify as both American and of Asian descent.

It's important to note that:

* The use of hyphenated terms can be controversial, as some people view them as emphasizing differences rather than shared American identity.

* The term "hyphenated American" can be seen as a way to acknowledge the diverse backgrounds and experiences that contribute to American culture.

* Some groups prefer to use alternative terms that emphasize their cultural heritage, like "Black" or "Latinx," rather than hyphenated terms.

Overall, "hyphenated American" is a term that reflects the complex and multifaceted nature of American identity. It can be a useful way to recognize the diversity of the country and its people, but its usage can also be debated.