The Bracero Program: Farmworkers Come Back — Reading Comprehension

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Grades

Standards

D2.HIS.1.5-6
D2.HIS.2.5-6
RI.5.3
RI.5.4
W.5.2

About This Reader

This passage explores the history of the Bracero Program, which brought Mexican farmworkers to the United States during World War II. Students will learn about the causes and effects of this program, including how it helped both countries during a time of need. The passage is written for upper elementary learners and emphasizes clear, chronological storytelling. It includes a glossary of key terms, a timeline of important events, and activities such as a multiple-choice quiz and a writing prompt to help students connect past events with the present. The content is aligned with C3 Framework and Common Core standards, making it a valuable resource for history and literacy instruction. This resource also offers a Spanish translation and read aloud audio, supporting bilingual and diverse classrooms.

CONTENT PREVIEW

The Bracero Program began in 1942 during World War II. The United States needed workers to help grow and pick food. Many American men went to war, so there were not enough farmworkers at home. The U.S. government made an agreement with Mexico to bring Mexican workers to the United States.

The word bracero means “one who works with his arms” in Spanish. These workers helped pick fruit and vegetables. They also helped plant and harvest crops. The jobs were hard, but the workers were brave and worked together. They wanted to help their families and both countries.

The program started because American farms needed help. Farms were important for feeding soldiers and people at home. Without enough workers, crops might rot in the fields. The Bracero Program helped solve this problem. Mexican workers traveled by train and bus to states like California and Texas. Some traveled far from their homes and families.

Braceros signed contracts with rules about work, pay, and living conditions. Many lived in simple camps near the fields. Sometimes, conditions were hard. Some workers did not get all their pay or good housing. Still, many braceros felt proud. One worker said, “We came to help, and we worked hard for America.”

Over twenty years, more than four million braceros worked in the United States. They sent money home to their families in Mexico. They also built friendships and learned new skills. The program ended in 1964, but its story is important. It shows how people from different countries can work together to solve problems.

The Bracero Program changed both the United States and Mexico. It helped feed millions during a tough time. It also helped shape the farmwork that still happens today. Many families in the U.S. and Mexico have roots in the Bracero Program.

Interesting Fact: More than 4.5 million contracts were signed by Mexican braceros during the program.

When did the Bracero Program begin?

1942193019641955

What does 'bracero' mean?

One who works with armsA farm ownerA soldierA train driver

Which country sent workers to the U.S.?

MexicoCanadaFranceGermany

Why did farms need help during WWII?

Many men went to warCrops were too easy to pickMachines did all the workThere was too much rain

How did the Bracero Program help?

Provided farmworkers for U.S. farmsEnded all farmingSent U.S. workers to MexicoBuilt new schools

What did some braceros send home?