"Hispanic or Latino" refers to individuals who have cultural ties to Spanish-speaking countries, primarily in Latin America and Spain. This term encompasses a diverse group of people with various ethnic backgrounds, including Indigenous, European, African, and Asian heritages. The distinction between "Hispanic" and "Latino" is that "Hispanic" relates to the Spanish language, while "Latino" refers to geographical origin in Latin America. The U.S. Census Bureau recognizes "Hispanic or Latino" as an ethnic category, allowing individuals to identify as such regardless of their race. This classification helps in understanding the demographics of the population, including communities like Mexican Americans, Puerto Ricans, and Cuban Americans.