How the Finns became White (in America)

#ancestry #findingyourroots #ancestrydna #dnatest #finns #finland #familyhistory #genealogy #courtcases In the compelling narrative of Finnish immigrants, the court case of John Svan stands as a pivotal moment in their quest for whiteness in America. In 1908, Svan’s application for naturalized citizenship was initially rejected, as Finnish immigrants were deemed “mongols“ and “yellow,“ rendering them ineligible. However, a state supreme court judge offered a remarkable perspective, acknowledging that while the Finns may have had Mongolian origins, their adaptation to the harsh, Northern climate and historical assimilation had turned them into one of “the whitest people in Europe.“ This significant ruling allowed John Svan and other Finnish immigrants to be recognized as white, affording them the protective benefits and legitimacy of U.S. citizenship, in an era where notions of whiteness were deeply entwined with societal power and counts as “white“ ? Discover how to leave a meaningful legacy with our “Be a Good Ancestor“ course. Learn valuable techniques and insights to preserve and share your family’s stories for generations to come. Grab yours now at and embark on a transformative journey of preserving your family’s history! SOURCES AND REFERENCES: Court Opinion: Finnish Folk Song: Library of Congress Archive of Folk Culture, American Folklife Center, 101 Independence Ave. S.E., Washington, DC USA 20540-4610 Digital Id ----------------- The documentary- series “Finding Lola“ is done, but is the journey over? ⚪Support more storytelling and get behind the scenes videos: 🟢Watch the docu-series “Finding Lola“ : ⚪Want to connect? 🟢Want to know more? Grab your own Ancestry DNA test now*! : -------- Come join me on a new docu-series that explores identity, racial tensions in the South during the 20th century, and the unique experiences of those who historically called Louisiana home. My name is Danielle Romero, and all my life, I have romanticized Louisiana. Growing up in New York, it represented a place where I could step back the sepia-toned life of my great grandmother, Lola Perot, who died before I was born. Now, it was time to go back to Louisiana--although I had no idea what the truth would be or what questions to ask---who was Lola really? Who were we? *Amazon links are affiliate links. If buy something through these links, we may earn affiliate commission. Thank you for supporting this project!