Who are Lebanese-Americans?
Posted on Tuesday October 17, 2006 Lebanese immigrants have been settling in the U.S. since the late 19th century, making them the largest subgroup of Arabic speaking immigrants in America. According to the U.S. Census Bureau*, approximately one-third of persons reporting Arab ancestry were Lebanese. AAIF estimates that at least one million Americans are of Lebanese heritage. While many Lebanese immigrated to America during the great migration, the 1970s began a new wave which has not slowed since. Two major events contributed to an increase in the number of immigrants and refugees coming to the U.S., the civil war in Lebanon in 1975, and the Israeli invasion of Lebanon in 1982. • Well known Americans of Lebanese descent include: actors Tony Shalhoub and Marlo Thomas; White House correspondent Helen Thomas; NFL player Doug Flutie; NASCAR champion Bobby Rahal; and U.S. Congressmen Nick Rahall, Darell Issa, Charles Boustany, and Ray Lahood. • Forty percent of Lebanese-Americans have rece
