Romanian Ethnic Organizations in the United States

This monograph brings into focus the presence and voices of Romanian-Americans in the United States by examining the role of voluntary associations in shaping identity and community life during the first four decades of the 20th century. It offers a comprehensive analysis of Romanian ethnic organizations in their diverse forms—fraternal and mutual aid societies, political clubs, cultural associations, ladies’ auxiliaries and youth groups—and describes them as crucibles of the Romanian immigrant experience in the New World. The book argues that ethnic associations served as effervescent spaces of cultural interaction, which enabled members to affirm both their loyalty to Romania and their commitment to American life. Grounded in original research based on primary sources from libraries and historical societies—many of which have not been previously examined in scholarly work—this book will be of interest to scholars in the areas of Ethnic Studies, Diaspora Studies, Cultural Studies and Anthropology.