Document Type
Dissertation
Publication Date
2026
Abstract
Over the last 200 years, Swedish immigrants have established themselves into American society. Historians have focused on the creation of Swedish-American identity yet, the intersection of identity and class has been understudied. This thesis examines two case studies: wealthier, established, and socially mobile Swedish Republicans that centered themselves around the memory of John Ericsson and the working class, labor activists that found a martyr with Joe Hill. Examining both groups demonstrates that the creation of a Swedish-American identity is impacted by class status, ideology and historical memory. Yet, the actual lived experiences of Ericsson and Hill also showcase that identity cannot be bound to simple labels of "American" or "foreigner." Ultimately, being a hyphenated American represents a fluid category dependent on actual experience rather than memorialization.
Recommended Citation
Coons, Ryan D., "Hyphenated America: The Story of Swedish Immigrants in the 20th Century" (2026). History. 3.
https://knightscholar.geneseo.edu/history-faculty/3