While many cultures have successfully assimilated into Anglo-American society, there are other cultures whom have found assimilation either impossible or ho have chosen not to fully assimilate, yet retain their own culture, while reaping the benefits of the American lifestyle. America is perceived as the great melting pot; the land of endless opportunity. Fixed as they were on this image, many immigrants fled a disruptive revolution to find a place in America (139). Be it a revolution in their home land or being detained behind barbwired fences, the immigrants I'm speaking of are all in search of a better life for tomorrow in America.
The Cubans assimilated into the American culture by opening businesses, restaurants, night clubs, and by holding prominent political positions. In doing so, the Americans felt as though the Cubans were trying to recreate pre-Revolutionary Havana. However, the Cubans only wanted a better life. They had no intention of mixing with the American culture. The Japanese Americans assimilated into life in the Manzannar internment camp by making their surroundings as they were in Japan, creating lush gardens filled with cactus plants and rock gardens which resembled Mount Fujiyama (100).
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