Exploring the Nuances of American White and Eastern European White People
There is no scientific difference between American white people and Eastern European white people since race is not defined by ethnicity or national origin. However, cultural heritage and self-identification play a significant role in determining the distinctions between these groups. According to the most recent census data, roughly 9.5% of American whites identify as having Eastern European ancestry, reflecting the significant contributions of Eastern European immigrants and descendants to the American cultural tapestry.
The Demographics and Self-Identification
According to the 2010 US Census, over 18 million Americans, or roughly 9.5% of American whites, self-identify as Eastern European."" Eastern European white people" in their ancestry. This statistic is based on self-reported data and does not reflect potential mixed ancestry. The census data includes a wide array of nationalities such as Russian, Polish, Czech, Hungarian, Yugoslav, Romanian, Ukrainian, and Slovak. Additionally, there are around 185,000 people who identify as Bulgarian and 20,100 Albanian Americans, bringing the Eastern European white population close to 20 million.
Cultural Differences and Similarities
The key differences between non-Eastern European American white people and Eastern European white people lie in cultural customs, traditions, and foods. While the majority of Americans may not have these specific cultural backgrounds, understanding these distinctions can provide insight into the rich diversity within the American white population.
Eating Habits and Cuisine
Eastern European cultural markers include a variety of traditional foods. Eastern Europeans, particularly those from countries like Poland, Russia, and Hungary, often enjoy dishes such as kielbasa, pierogi, and kefir. These are not commonly found in the diets of non-Eastern European white Americans, who may partake in these foods on special occasions or through family traditions.
Language and Language Use
A significant cultural difference is the use of languages with a complex grammatical structure, characterized by a high number of noun cases. Eastern European languages, such as Russian, Polish, and Czech, have more extensive grammatical rules compared to Germanic or Romance languages used by non-Eastern European white Americans. However, this is less prominent in younger generations due to the influence of English and other dominant languages.
Other Cultural Expressions
Eastern Europeans also have unique cultural expressions like traditional Easter eggs, which are intricate and patterned. Eastern Europe is also known for its traditional beverages, such as kisselo mleko (a type of yogurt) and slivovits (a plum brandy). These are not widely consumed by non-Eastern European white Americans.
Music and dance are also important cultural expressions. Eastern European folk songs often feature complex time signatures such as 17/8. Instruments like the garmoshka, a type of dolatte or slide whistle instrument, are also characteristic of traditional Eastern European music.
Conclusion
Despite these cultural differences, it is important to recognize that the majority of Americans, regardless of their ancestry, share a common identity as American citizens. Cultural distinctions between American white people and Eastern European white people should be celebrated and appreciated as they contribute to the rich tapestry of American culture. However, not all Americans with Eastern European ancestry identify strongly with their heritage, reflecting the complex and evolving nature of self-identification in contemporary society.
Keywords
eastern european white, american white, cultural differences