An Autoethnographic Exploration of Genealogical Roots: Croatian-American Identity

Abstract

Ethnic identity refers to how people describe and define their ancestry, values, heritage, beliefs, and other features of culture. This autoethnographic study is largely rooted in genealogical research, storytelling, and reflexivity and centers on my identity as a fourth-generation Croatian American as well as the identity of my great grandfather, a first-generation Croatian American. The article examines the experiences of Croatian immigrants living in the United States prior to World War I. This is the period when my great grandfather came to America. I also expand on the lives of early Croatian Americans and their ethnic identities. I explore my great grandfather’s experiences in the United States and also examine his family background in Croatia. Through reflexivity and analysis, I strive to define and describe my identity as a Croatian American. Although I was not heavily exposed to Croatian culture as a child and adolescent, I realize the importance of establishing and maintaining my Croatian identity and preserving Croatian heritage so that it can be passed down to the next generation.