Based on a research study carried out in the mid-1970s, this paper traces the Puerto Rican immigration into Milwaukee and provides an overview of the economic and social conditions which fostered the growth of Milwaukee's Puerto Rican population. Also discussed are Puerto Rican family and household characteristics, religion, jobs and income, and health care. The Puerto Rican neighborhood is examined in terms of its housing, community organizations, recreation, and transportation. The political climate of the Puerto Rican community is described as being marked by indifference and disunity. The various stages that the educational process has undergone through the years in meeting the needs of Puerto Rican students are described, with particular attention given to the growth of bilingual/bicultural programs. In addition, the prospect of Puerto Ricans maintaining their ethnic identity into the 1980s is discussed. Appendices list comments by Puerto Rican individuals regarding such factors as language problems, health care, youth problems, neighborhood problems, recreation, transportation, and organization participation. (EB)