#ancestry #findingyourroots #ancestrydna #dnatest #finns #finland #swedes #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," and "China Swedes" 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 acceptance.Who 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 www.nytonashville.com and embark on a transformative journey of preserving your family's history!


SOURCES AND REFERENCES:
Court Opinion:
http://www.historymuseumeot.com/mfahs...
http://www.historymuseumeot.com/mfahs...
Finnish Folk Song:
Library of Congress Archive of Folk Culture, American Folklife Center, 101 Independence Ave. S.E., Washington, DC USA 205404610 http://hdl.loc.gov/loc.afc/folklife.home
Digital Id
http://hdl.loc.gov/loc.afc/afc1940001...


The documentary series "Finding Lola" is done, but is the journey over?


⚪Support more storytelling and get behind the scenes videos:   / about  

Watch the docuseries "Finding Lola" :    • MY family story of "White Passing"  

⚪Want to connect?   / findinglolafilm  

Want to know more? www.findinglolafilm.com
Grab your own Ancestry DNA test now*! : https://amzn.to/3UxGKJx




Come join me on a new docuseries 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 sepiatoned life of my great grandmother, Lola Perot, who died before I was born.
Now, it was time to go back to Louisianaalthough I had no idea what the truth would be or what questions to askwho 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!