Peruvian in United States

Introduction / History

What is now Peru was part of the Spanish Empire from the 1500s until their independence in 1821. Their culture blends those of the Spaniards, Africans, and the various Amerindian groups of their part of South America. The Incan Empire lasted from 1438 till the Spaniards conquered it in 1532.

The vast majority of Peruvians live in Peru, but there is also a diaspora in several countries including the United States, where they make up a small but unique part of the Latino population.

The first Peruvian immigration to the U.S. came during the California Gold Rush in the early 1850s. More recently, Peruvians have come for economic reasons. They are most likely to be found in Florida followed by California and New Jersey.

What Are Their Lives Like?

Peruvian cuisine depends on where in the country one is from. Those on the Pacific Coast enjoy seafood dishes such as ceviche, while many Americans enjoy at Peruvian restaurants. Peruvians enjoy as good of a standard of living as majority Americans, and a low poverty rate. Almost half have a college degree. There is the Peruvian-American Coalition in New Jersey that looks after the needs of the Peruvian community.

What Are Their Beliefs?

Peruvians are usually Roman Catholic like most Latin Americans, but many are Evangelical. They can become a great mission force no matter where they live.

What Are Their Needs?

Christians, whether Catholic, Orthodox, or Protestant, need the Holy Spirit to awaken their hearts to Jesus Christ's centrality. They need a close relationship with the Lord of Lords.

Prayer Points

Pray for revival in Peruvian churches, be they Roman Catholic or Protestant.
Pray for the Holy Spirit to draw Peruvians closer to Christ.
Pray for Peruvians to become a mission force to unreached peoples in the United States.
Pray for Peruvians to support workers around the world faithfully.

Text Source:   Joshua Project