Here's a breakdown of why Spanish is so prominent in the US:
* Colonial history: Spain colonized much of what is now the US, especially the southwest and Florida. This left a lasting legacy of Spanish language and culture.
* Immigration: Since the early 20th century, a large number of people have immigrated to the US from Spanish-speaking countries like Mexico, Puerto Rico, Cuba, and Central America. These immigrants brought their language with them.
* Geographic proximity: The US shares a long border with Mexico, a country where Spanish is the official language. This close proximity has led to significant cultural exchange, including the influence of Spanish.
* Cultural and economic significance: The Spanish-speaking population in the US has grown significantly, contributing to the cultural landscape and economic development. This has led to increased use and acceptance of Spanish.
It's important to remember that:
* Not everyone in the US speaks Spanish. Many people speak English as their primary language.
* Spanish is not the official language of the US. English is the official language, but Spanish is recognized as a major language spoken by a large portion of the population.
* Spanish is a diverse language: There are many dialects of Spanish spoken throughout the US, influenced by the regions of origin of immigrants.
Rather than using the term "they", it's more accurate to say that a significant portion of the US population speaks Spanish. This reflects the diversity and richness of the country's linguistic landscape.