cultural studies in the heartland of america

 

Genealogical research represents a significant part of cultural studies and provides valuable insights into American culture and history. The objective of this case study is to trace the life of Carl F. Andersson, who emigrated from Sweden in the late nineteenth century. Carl's ancestry is traced back six generations and his descendants are portrayed. The history of the Anderson family is explored by examining several aspects of their lives, including reasons for immigration, economic and social circumstances in Sweden and America, the journey to the United States, their religious affiliations, workplaces and residences. Two family businesses established by family members are presented.

The process of genealogical research is described step by step, along with useful genealogy websites and software options. Findings are visually supported by digitalized family tree charts, family and historical photographs, mind maps and geographical maps.

63 pp., 38 fig.

DEDICATION 2

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS  3

1 Introduction 6

2 Genealogical research 7

2.1 Definition of genealogy 7

2.2 Importance of genealogical research for translators  7

2.3 Reconstruction Projects at the University of Heidelberg  8

2.4 Genealogy in the United States  8

2.5 Gathering Information 10

2.6 Genealogical research in Sweden 17

3 Life Story of Carl F. Anderson

4 Leaving Sweden 27

4.1 Push factors 28

4.1.1 Overpopulation  28

4.1.2 Shortage of farmland  29

4.1.3 Crop failures 29

4.1.4 Late industrialization and urbanization  30

4.2 Pull factors  30

4.2.1 The Homestead Act  30

4.2.2 Immigration propaganda 31

4.2.3 Letters 31 

5 Coming to America 32

5.1 Voyage to America: from Gothenburg, Sweden to Boston, USA 32

5.2 Passing through Chicago 34

5.3 From Chicago to Chesterton  35

6 In America 37

6.1 Charles W. Anderson and Amanda Swanson 37

6.2 Protestant Heritage 41

6.3 Family Businesses of the Andersons 44

7 Outlook 47

8 Family tree of the Anderson family 49

List of abbreviations 59

Print sources   59

Internet sources 60

Table of figures  62