Slavic Heritage Coalition

SLOVAKIA

Immigration Information

Slovakian immigration to the United States emerged in the late 1870’s when Slovakia was a part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. However, the amount of individuals who immigrated is unknown due to the methodology used to record separate ethnic groups. Nearly 500,000 Slovakian immigrants were accounted for between the years of 1880 and the 1920’s. Two-thirds of these immigrants were men seeking employment within the white collar labor sector.

After the establishment of Czechoslovakia, immigration to the United States began to dwindle. This is mostly due to the fact that the United States imposed quotas on many Eastern European countries. Only a mere 2,874 Czechoslovakians per year were entitled to immigrate to the United States during this time.

Immigration was also restricted under the wrath of the U.S.S.R.; however, after gaining independence once more, Slovakian immigration to the United States has increased substantially.

Major Religions and Beliefs

The majority of Slovakians are Roman Catholic making up 68.9% of the population. Many Slovakians are also Protestant Christians, making up 13% of the population.

History, Traditions and Culture

The current majority of Slovak-Americans are white-collar workers with office jobs. However, despite this transition from manual labor to office work, it seems as though very few are self-employed. Demographically, Slovak-Americans tend to dwell where their ancestors, mostly from the late 19th and early 20th century immigration wave, had previously settled. Their presence is primarily dominant in communities within Pennsylvania, Ohio, Illinois, New York, and New Jersey.

Slovak-Americans practice points of their ethnic heritage through traditions based in religious and family traditions. This is noted in holiday celebrations such as Christmas and Easter where Slovak families gather together in honor of traditional Slovak festivities and foods.

Many Slovakians celebrate “Name Days” instead of birthdays. Various days of the year are associated with different first names. These days are celebrated as birthdays would be where presents are given in celebration of the person’s name day.

Academic Organizations

The National Czech & Slovak Museum & Library

30 - 16th Avenue SW

Cedar Rapids, Iowa 52404-5904

tel: 319-362-8500

fax: 319-363-2209

Consulates

Slovakian Embassy in the United States

3523 International Court NW Washington DC, 20008

tel: (202) 237 1054, fax: (202) 237 6438

information@slovakembassy-us.org

UN contact information