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Abstract
In American Studies this is probably the first work that deals with Asian Indians who are not directly from the Indian subcontinent.
Using eight disciplines this dissertation endeavors to prove that: (1) these erstwhile subjects have successfully acculturated to the Southern California lifestyle, (2) that they have taken roots in the physical landscape, (3) that the combination of the two processes has resulted in the creation of their regional identity as Angelenos. Again, in American Studies this is probably the first work that combines the three said themes in reference to an immigrant group.
Since the past shapes the present that in turn shapes the future their historical background (mainly the British colonial connection that brought their forefathers to East Africa) has been detailed. The causes of their expulsion/flight have also been explained.
Since the creation of a regional identity is also shaped by national, state, and local factors the mythological appeal of the United States, California, and Los Angeles has been explained and their attributes detailed. A separate chapter on the flip side (El Diablo) of Los Angeles has been included not only to balance (what may appear to be) the hyperbolic aspects of Los Angeles but also to prove, despite the very real negative attributes, the fact that El Dorado is actually much bigger than El Diablo. Using a wide range of indicators, written answers and selected interviews, the acculturation and acquisition of a sense of place of these subjects has been shown.
In the last chapter the subjects assess their success and prospects. The summary ends with an appeal to the reader not to lump varied groups with some dominant group within their wider subculture and to recognize diversity within diversity. Old-fashioned assimilationists have also been urged not to view the United States in Euro-American terms anymore as the nature of immigration has drastically changed since 1965. The rise of Los Angeles as the ultimate expression of the extraordinary diversity that has thus arisen has been emphasized.
