Lin-Manuel Miranda: In His Own Words
Now watch this 2010 interview, in which Lin-Manuel Miranda discusses with Maria Hinojosa why his Broadway productions are rooted in stories that are both authentic to his Latino heritage and connect to a broader national American identity. As you watch, consider how Miranda describes the challenges that he faced, his goals, and what he did that ultimately propelled him to achieve his dream.
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Take Notes
Alexander Hamilton, of European descent, was born in the 18th century on an island that was the center of the British slave trade in the Caribbean Sea. Lin-Manuel Miranda, whose parents came from Puerto Rico, was born more than 200 years later in New York City. Yet despite their different backgrounds, Miranda says in the video, “I’m not a Founding Father, but I read Hamilton’s story and I said, ‘I know that guy.’”
How did Miranda go from writing a story set in his own community (In the Heights) to writing about a Founding Father (Hamilton)? What does this say about Miranda’s perception of himself as an American? (Click SAVE when you have finished. To see your saved or submitted work again, click MY WORK at the top of the page.)
