Ethnic Identity

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Ethnicity is a central theme of the American experience. Richard D. Alba examines the changing role of ethnicity in the lives of Americans from diverse European backgrounds. He demonstrates that while the ethnic origins of white Americans have become less significant in measurable areas such as education, occupation, and marriage, they remain relevant in more subjective aspects. Through in-depth interviews with over five hundred individuals, Alba explores the influence of ethnicity on food, friendships, organizational memberships, experiences with prejudice, and children's identity. He highlights how the specific ethnic backgrounds of white Americans have diminished in objective importance due to increasing intermarriage and the prevalence of ethnically mixed ancestry. For this group, ethnic identity has become increasingly symbolic, reflecting attachment to select cultural traditions with minimal impact on daily life. However, Alba notes the emergence of a new ethnic group—termed "European Americans"—which draws from all parts of the European continent. This group has developed its own myths regarding its role in American history and its connection to American identity, with implications for racial minorities and new immigrant populations from Asia, Latin America, and the Caribbean.