Dominican Republic Cultural Heritage: Customs and Values

Brief History of the Dominican Republic

Generations of Americans do not truly consider the United States their "home country" because they came here in search of a better life — not only for themselves but for their loved ones. Despite their reasons for leaving their native homelands, they still carry fond memories of the "old country." I am no different, having originated from the Dominican Republic, an island paradise in the Caribbean that occupies almost 70% of the island of Hispaniola. Hispaniola comprises two nations: Haiti to the west and the Dominican Republic on the eastern side. I have wonderful memories as I recall stories about my family's home country. Whenever I hear them, I cannot help but feel nostalgic — especially when family members talk about gatherings during special occasions and how everyone knew each other in the neighborhood where my parents and grandparents lived.

The Dominican Republic is the second largest country in the Caribbean; Cuba is the first. Like most countries in the Caribbean and Latin America, the Dominican Republic was settled and colonized by Spanish conquistadors during the 15th century. When Christopher Columbus first discovered the island in 1492, he named it La Isla Española, which became Hispaniola. A few years later, the city of Santo Domingo became the Spanish capital of the New World, and because of its location in the trade winds, it served as the gateway to the Caribbean (Van Eps Garlo, 2006). The Dominican Republic was indeed a strategic launching point for European conquerors, particularly during their voyages into the Americas. Spain ruled the country for about three hundred years, but by 1795 Spain ceded the entire island to France (Van Eps Garlo, 2006). Thereafter, the slave trade reached a turning point, and several African slaves brought to Hispaniola took root and became part of the nation's population. As a result, the Dominican Republic's cultural and ethnic identity comprises a blend of French, Spanish, African, and indigenous Taino influences.

By the mid- to late 1800s, when several European colonies around the world began fighting for independence, the Dominican Republic was no exception. The nation "finally attained independence as the Dominican Republic in 1844. In 1861, the Dominicans voluntarily returned to the Spanish Empire, but two years later they launched a war that restored independence in 1865" (CIA, 2011). From then on, the nation enjoyed autonomy; however, it faced serious internal challenges from various factions seeking control of the country. During much of its history, the Dominican Republic was governed by strong-arm dictators who denied human rights to their citizens, particularly darker-skinned people (Van Eps Garlo, 2006). By 1965, a civil war broke out that deeply divided the nation. Democracy was restored a year later through a general election, and "since then, regular competitive elections have been held in which opposition candidates have won the presidency" (CIA, 2011). Like most nations, the Dominican Republic has its own constitution, with the most recent amendments occurring in 2004.

With several centuries of Spanish rule, it is unsurprising that the behaviors and values of the Dominican people center on Spanish norms and beliefs, with particular influence from the Roman Catholic Church. The family, as the basic unit of Dominican society, is critically important in transmitting values, behaviors, and attitudes from parents to children. A proud, assertive attitude is admired in sports, business, and politics. Machismo permeates society, especially among rural and low-income groups, with males enjoying privileges not accorded to females (Van Eps Garlo, 2006). Relationships, social networking, and personal contacts are also highly valued. Dominicans are known to be friendly, helpful, and hospitable — they exhibit a joie de vivre expressed through their smiles and warmth. When someone visits, Dominicans go out of their way to make guests feel welcome and comfortable (Kwintessential, 2008).

Behaviors, Values, and Social Norms

Food for Dominicans is an expression of their love of life, and some of the finest cuisine can be found throughout the country. There is a rich blend of French, Spanish, African, and native culinary traditions. A staple food is la bandera, composed of white rice and red beans. There is also a "favorite dish called sancocho, a meat, plantain, and vegetable stew. On the coast, fish and conch are enjoyed, and coconut is used to sweeten many seafood dishes. Root vegetables include sweet potatoes, yams, cassava, and potatoes. Small quantities of chicken, beef, pork, or goat are eaten with a meal. Food is generally not spicy" (Van Eps Garlo, 2006). Meals are typically unhurried and are considered a social occasion — a time for people to talk and stay informed about the latest happenings in each other's lives.

Dominicans are savvy dressers, and it is not uncommon to see younger generations and those in the middle and upper classes sporting the latest fashions. Appearance matters greatly to Dominicans, and the way one dresses is one of the most visible expressions of that value. Professional men wear business suits or the traditional chacabana, a white shirt worn over dark trousers. Rural women wear skirts or dresses, but in urban areas jeans and short skirts are acceptable. Bright colors and shiny fabrics are favored (Van Eps Garlo, 2006). Dominicans tend to judge a person's worth in part by how they dress; therefore, looking one's best is important, especially given that Dominicans place high value on neatness and cleanliness.

Family Life: Child Rearing, Gender Roles, and Family Structure

Since the family is a central aspect of Dominican life, it follows that children are deeply loved and doted on. Dominican mothers are primarily responsible for raising children, while fathers serve as the disciplinarian and provider. Most Dominican families are extended families in which relatives such as grandparents share the same household. Grandparents therefore play an active role in child rearing and often spoil their grandchildren. Much of the culture and tradition of the Dominican Republic is passed down to children through parents and grandparents. Those belonging to the Catholic faith — which includes the majority of Dominicans — bring their children to regular church services and Catholic education as part of their upbringing and moral formation.

As a result of Spanish and French influences, the Dominican Republic maintains a male-oriented, macho culture. Machismo permeates society, especially among rural and low-income groups, with males enjoying privileges not accorded to females (Van Eps Garlo, 2006). From an early age, Dominican children are made aware of their sexual identities and their expected future roles, particularly in terms of family life. Despite this macho culture, some Dominican women have made significant advances in society, especially those who have pursued higher education and hold important positions in government and private corporations.

The Dominican family structure is predominantly patriarchal, with the father serving as head of household, primary decision-maker, and breadwinner. The mother's role centers on raising and caring for children, while grandparents, as part of the extended family, provide additional support. Siblings are expected to obey their elders without question; those who do not risk becoming social outcasts within both the family and the broader community. Although family roles in Dominican society are clearly defined, they have evolved over recent decades due to the influence of American culture and the increasing number of women taking on professional roles in business and industry. As a result, grandparents are often left to care for children while parents are at work, and older siblings are expected to help look after younger ones.