Romanian Americans facts for kids

Romanian Americans are people living in the United States who have Romanian family roots. This means their ancestors, or they themselves, came from Romania. In 2017, nearly half a million Americans said they had Romanian heritage. However, some people think the real number might be much higher, possibly over a million!

These Americans have brought many parts of Romanian culture with them. They share their traditions, language, and history. They have also helped shape the diverse culture of the United States.

Why Did Romanians Come to America?

Romanians have moved to the United States for many reasons over the years. They often sought new opportunities and a better life. Many also looked for freedom and safety.

Early Romanian Immigration Waves

The first big wave of Romanian immigrants came in the late 1800s and early 1900s. Many of these people were farmers or laborers. They came to find work in America's growing industries. These included factories, mines, and farms. They often settled in states like Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Michigan.

Seeking Economic Opportunities

Life in Romania could be tough for many people back then. There were not enough jobs, and it was hard to earn a good living. America was seen as a land of opportunity. People heard stories of good wages and the chance to own land. This encouraged many to make the long journey across the ocean.

Escaping Difficult Times

Some Romanians also left their homeland to escape political problems or wars. They wanted a peaceful place to raise their families. Others faced challenges because of their religion or background. America offered a fresh start and the promise of a more equal society.

After World War II and the Cold War

Another group of Romanians came to the U.S. after World War II. Many of these were people who had been displaced by the war. Later, during the Cold War, Romania was under a communist government. Many Romanians left to find political freedom. They wanted to live in a country where they could speak their minds.

Finding Freedom and New Lives

These immigrants often included educated people like doctors, engineers, and artists. They contributed their skills to American society. They also helped build strong Romanian-American communities. These communities kept their culture alive through churches and organizations.

Modern Romanian Immigration

Today, Romanians continue to come to the United States. They come for education, jobs, and family reasons. The internet and easier travel make it simpler to connect with relatives. This also helps them learn about opportunities in America.

Where Do Romanian Americans Live?

Romanian Americans live all across the United States. However, some areas have larger communities. These places often have Romanian churches, cultural centers, and businesses.

Major Romanian-American Communities

The New York City Metropolitan Area has a very large Romanian-American population. Other states with many Romanian Americans include New Jersey, Ohio, California, and Illinois. These areas often have a long history of Romanian immigration.

Building Community Centers

In these communities, Romanian Americans have built churches. They have also created cultural organizations. These places help new immigrants settle in. They also help younger generations learn about their heritage. They host events like folk dances and traditional music concerts.

What Is Romanian-American Culture Like?

Romanian-American culture is a mix of Romanian traditions and American life. It's a unique blend that celebrates both identities.

Language and Religion

Many Romanian Americans speak both American English and Romanian. The Romanian language is important for keeping their heritage strong. Religion also plays a big role. Most Romanian Americans are Romanian Orthodox. There are also communities of Romanian Greek Catholics and other faiths.

The Importance of Churches

Churches are often the heart of Romanian-American communities. They are places for worship, but also for social gatherings. They host events, teach language classes, and celebrate holidays. They help connect people and pass on traditions.

Food and Traditions

Romanian-American families often enjoy traditional Romanian foods. These might include sarmale (cabbage rolls) or mămăligă (polenta). They also celebrate Romanian holidays. These celebrations often involve special meals and music.

Celebrating Heritage

Many Romanian Americans take pride in their heritage. They teach their children about Romanian history and customs. They might wear traditional clothes for special events. They also share their culture with their American friends and neighbors.

Notable Romanian Americans

Many Romanian Americans have made important contributions to the United States. They have excelled in various fields.

Contributions to Arts and Sciences

Romanian Americans have become famous in arts, sciences, and sports. For example, some have become well-known actors or musicians. Others have made breakthroughs in science or technology.

Making a Difference

These individuals show the positive impact immigrants have on America. They bring new ideas and talents. They help make the country stronger and more diverse.

Images for kids

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  The Embassy of Romania located in Washington, D.C.

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  St. John's Church, Philadelphia

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  St. Stefan's Romanian Orthodox Church in South St. Paul, Minnesota

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  The Maranatha Baptist Church in New York

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  The Grace Romanian Pentecostal Church in Ypsilanti Township, Michigan

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  St. Mary's Romanian Byzantine Catholic Church in Dearborn, Michigan

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  The First Roumanian-American Congregation on the Lower East Side of Manhattan

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  An album of Romanian music issued by Romanian Jewish immigrants in New York at the beginning of the 20th century

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  Romanian immigrants in New York City (1891)

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  Romanian volunteers from Struthers, Ohio in the United States Army (1918)

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  Romanian volunteers from Youngstown, Ohio in the US Army (1918)