The Greek Diaspora in the United States traces its roots back to the early 19th century, when the first Greek immigrants arrived on American shores. These pioneers laid the foundation for a vibrant and enduring Greek community that would thrive and contribute significantly to American society. From the hardships faced by early immigrants to the cultural and economic impact they have had on the United States, the history of the Greek Diaspora is a testament to the resilience and perseverance of the Greek people.
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Migration from Greece to the United States
The first wave of Greek immigrants arrived in the United States in the early 1800s. Many of them were sailors, traders, or merchants who settled in major port cities such as New York, New Orleans, and Boston. Most of these early immigrants came from the island of Hydra, which had a long maritime tradition. They established small businesses and became active participants in the local economy.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, a significant number of Greeks migrated to the United States in search of better economic opportunities and to escape political instability in Greece. This period saw a surge in Greek immigration, with thousands of Greeks arriving on American shores. They settled in various parts of the country, including the industrial cities of the Northeast and the Midwest.
Adjusting to the new country
Photo Source: Lewis Wickes Hine, “Greek Bootblack, Indianapolis, Aug., 1908, 10 P.M. Location: Indianapolis, Indiana,” Lot 7480, August 1908. Courtesy of the Library of Congress.
The Greek immigrants faced numerous challenges as they settled into their new lives in America. Language barriers, discrimination, and unfamiliarity with American customs made their journey particularly difficult. However, through hard work and determination, they managed to overcome these obstacles and establish themselves in their new homeland.
The Greek community in the United States played a crucial role in preserving and promoting Greek culture and heritage. Greek Orthodox churches were established in many cities, serving as social and cultural centers for the community. Greek schools were also established to ensure the preservation of the Greek language and traditions among the younger generations.
The Greek Diaspora was not immune to the challenges faced by other immigrant communities in the United States. Discrimination and prejudice were a reality for many Greek Americans. However, their strong sense of community and their determination to succeed allowed them to overcome these obstacles.
Greek communities in U.S. states
There are Greek communities in every part of the U.S. Here are a list of a few of the larger communities:
- New York: New York City has one of the largest Greek populations outside of Greece. The neighborhood of Astoria in Queens is known as “Little Greece” and is home to numerous Greek businesses, restaurants, and cultural organizations. The Greek Orthodox Archdiocese of America is headquartered in New York City.
- Illinois: Chicago has a substantial Greek population, with the community concentrated in the neighborhoods of Greektown and Lincoln Square. Large communities also exist throughout the Chicago suburbs. The city hosts the annual Taste of Greece festival, featuring Greek food, music, and dancing.
- Massachusetts: The Boston metropolitan area, particularly the neighborhoods of Brighton and Cambridge, has a significant Greek community. The St. Catherine Greek Orthodox Church in Braintree is one of the largest Greek Orthodox parishes in the United States.
- California: Los Angeles has a sizable Greek community, with several Greek Orthodox churches, cultural organizations, and businesses.
- Florida: The city of Tarpon Springs, located in Pinellas County, is known for its large Greek community and Greek sponge diving heritage. The city hosts the annual Epiphany celebration, where young men dive into Spring Bayou to retrieve a cross.
- Pennsylvania: The Philadelphia metropolitan area has a significant Greek community, with several Greek Orthodox churches and cultural institutions. The annual Greek Picnic and Greek Independence Day Parade are notable events in the community.
- Michigan: The Detroit metropolitan area has a thriving Greek community, with numerous Greek-owned businesses and restaurants. The city of Monroe, located south of Detroit, is known for its strong Greek heritage.
- Maryland: Baltimore has a notable Greek community, centered around the Greektown neighborhood. The city hosts the annual Greek Folk Festival, showcasing Greek music, dance, and cuisine.
- New Jersey: The Jersey Shore area, particularly the towns of Ocean City, Ventnor City, and Long Beach Island, has a significant Greek community. The St. Nicholas Greek Orthodox Church in Atlantic City is an important center of Greek religious and cultural activities.
- Ohio: The Cleveland metropolitan area has a sizable Greek population, with the community concentrated in the neighborhoods of Tremont and Shaker Heights. The city hosts the annual Greek cultural Festival, featuring traditional Greek food and entertainment.
Contributions of Greek immigrants to American society
During the early 20th century, Greek immigrants made significant contributions to the American economy. Many Greeks found success as small business owners, particularly in the restaurant industry. Greek-owned diners and restaurants became popular gathering places for local communities, serving as a melting pot of cultures and cuisines.
The Greek Diaspora also played a prominent role in American society beyond the confines of their own community. Greek Americans made significant contributions to various fields, including academia, politics, arts, and entertainment. Notable Greek Americans such as Elia Kazan, Michael Dukakis, and John Cassavetes achieved success in their respective fields and left a lasting impact on American culture.
In recent decades, the Greek Diaspora has continued to evolve and thrive. The descendants of the early immigrants have integrated into American society while maintaining a strong connection to their Greek heritage. Greek festivals, cultural events, and organizations continue to foster a sense of community and preserve Greek traditions.
The Greek Diaspora in the United States is a testament to the enduring spirit and resilience of the Greek people. From humble beginnings, they have built a thriving community that has contributed significantly to the fabric of American society. Their story is one of perseverance, cultural preservation, and successful integration, serving as an inspiration to future generations of Greek Americans.
Relevant collections
The following table presents historical record collections on MyHeritage with a high volume of results indicating Greece as the place of birth:
| Name of collection | Number of records | Number of results |
| U.S. Social Security Applications and Claims, 1936-2007 | 240,605,123 | 99,163 |
| Ellis Island and Other New York Passenger Lists, 1820-1957 | 113,554,317 | 274,296 |
| 1900 United States Federal Census | 76,460,854 | 8,731 |
| 1910 United States Federal Census | 92,639,466 | 101,566 |
| 1920 United States Federal Census | 107,445,111 | 161,606 |
| 1930 United States Federal Census | 125,150,767 | 172,066 |
| 1940 United States Federal Census | 134,282,495 | 161,593 |
| 1950 United States Federal Census | 159,401,661 | 162,681 |
| United States World War I Draft Registrations, 1917-1918 | 24,870,511 | 123,850 |
Explore more about Greek Diaspora communities in the United States
- Numerous supplementary research resources can be found on HellenicGenealogyGeek.com
- Ask The Expert – New Greek Records on MyHeritage on the MyHeritage Knowledge Base
- The Secret of Ereikoussa on the MyHeritage Blog