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U.S. because of their desire for freedom. Here the definition appears
to be similar to that of 1967. Also important for this group was the
ability to act without restriction. For these Cubans, long-term
considerations were more important than short-term factors such as the
scarcity of consumer goods.
Moreno Fraginals (1982) sees the scarcity of consumer goods as a
debilitating factor for the Cuban Revolution and as the major force in
motivating the lower economic sector to emigrate. After the Revolution,
the poor had high expectations in terms of their ability to obtain
consumer goods. Those who had these goods prior to the Revolution have
found it easier to do without, while those who have never had them are
impatient.
Indicators of Integration Within U.S. Social and Economic Systems
The socioeconomic structure of the Cuban immigration has changed a
great deal over the 24 years of immigration. As has been indicated,
the first to leave were the wealthy, the professionals, the well
educated, and those familiar with the U.S.'s social and economic
systems. They were the leaders in organizing the economic base which
the Cuban-Americans have established in the U.S. (Campbell, 1976;
Fagen, Brody, & O'Leary, 1968). Yet not all of these well-educated
people have been able to utilize their skills to the fullest. Many
have experienced extensive downward occupational mobility in the U.S.
(Moncarz, 1973; Rogg, 1974). Over time, there has not been massive
upward occupational mobility, indicating there is an under-utilization
of Cuban skills and resources in the U.S. (Moncarz, 1978; Rogg &