Belgian Americans facts for kids

Belgian Americans are people living in the United States whose families originally came from Belgium. Many years ago, people from Belgium started moving to America. Some arrived as early as the 1600s. However, most Belgian immigrants came during the 1800s and 1900s. They brought their culture, languages, and traditions with them.

Belgian Americans: Exploring Their Heritage

Belgian Americans are an important part of the diverse mix of people in the United States. They have helped shape American culture in many ways. From delicious foods to unique traditions, their heritage is rich and interesting.

Where Do Belgian Americans Live?

Belgian Americans live all across the United States. However, some states have larger communities than others. You can find many Belgian Americans in states like Wisconsin and Michigan. Other places with strong Belgian roots include Ohio, New York, and Illinois. Even California and Florida have Belgian American communities.

Many early Belgian immigrants settled in farming areas. They often named their new towns after places in Belgium. For example, Namur, Wisconsin is named after a city in Belgium. This helped them feel more at home in their new country.

Languages and Traditions

Belgian Americans speak several languages. Most speak American English. However, some also speak languages from Belgium. These include Flemish Dutch, Belgian French, and Walloon. A small number might also speak German.

Belgian culture is known for many things. One fun tradition is the use of processional giants. These are huge, colorful figures that are carried in parades. They are a big part of festivals in Belgium and in some Belgian American communities.

Belgians are also famous for their food. Think of delicious Belgian waffles, rich chocolates, and crispy fries! These tasty treats are enjoyed by many people around the world. Belgian Americans often share these traditions with their friends and neighbors.

A Bit of History

The first people from what is now Belgium arrived in America in the 1600s. They were among the early European settlers. However, the biggest waves of immigration happened much later.

During the 1800s and early 1900s, many Belgians left their homeland. They were looking for new opportunities. Some wanted land to farm. Others sought jobs in factories or mines. They traveled across the ocean to start new lives in America. These immigrants worked hard and built strong communities. They helped build up many parts of the United States.

Images for kids

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  The Emigrants (1896) by the Belgian artist Eugène Laermans shows people leaving their home.

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  Namur, Wisconsin, a Belgian American settlement named after the Belgian city of Namur.

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  Two processional giants, important figures in Belgian folklore, pictured in Brussels, Wisconsin.

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  A 19th-century view of Belgique, Missouri and its church.