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Course image Eastern European: Understanding Migration Patterns
Basic Eastern European Records
Course Summary:

Optional Print Course Material: Eastern European: Understanding Migration Patterns

*Course material will only be sent to students who are registered in the course.

This course provides an extensive overview of migration patterns of various ethnic groups from Central and Eastern Europe to the United States, Canada, South America, and other countries. The study of migration does not just involve one movement but recognizes that for a number of reasons, it is natural for peoples to move and settle from one place to another, be it a new country or a new community. For those researching ancestors who came from Central and Eastern Europe an understanding of the “push-pull factors” of emigration/immigration is critical to research success. This course will explore the history of migration of the various Central/Eastern European groups, and explain key concepts and definitions. In the study of migration, it is vital to remember that while we speak in general of peoples or ethnicities, each individual has a story, waiting to be explored. For in-depth study of countries or ethnic groups, students should take the appropriate elective courses.

Course Length: 7 weeks
Contact Hours: 18
Grading Scale: 70% Tests/30% Assignments
Course Length: 7 weeks
Course Content

MODULE 1
INTRODUCTION, TERMS & CONCEPTS
Emigration/Immigration/Migration
Statistics
Migration
Research Strategies for Tracking Ancestors’ Migrations
Chain Migration
Cluster & Collateral Research
Other Types of Cluster Research
Recommended Reading & Resources

MODULE 2
MIGRATION HISTORY TO NORTH AMERICA
Immigration Waves & Groups
To the United States
To Canada
Hints & Tips

MODULE 3
MIGRATION HISTORY TO EUROPE & LATIN AMERICA
Migration Patterns
Europe
United Kingdom
European Countries
Latin America
Ethnic Groups
Hints & Tips

MODULE 4
MIGRATION OVERVIEW BY ETHNIC GROUP
Eastern European Groups
Understanding “Slavic” Immigration
Hints & Tips

MODULE 5
MIGRATION TECHNIQUES & RECORDS
Home & Family Sources
Oral History Interviews
Recording What You’ve Found
Sources You Will Need
Cluster Research Techniques
How to Identify Clusters
Join the FAN Club
Hints & Tips

MODULE 6
RESEARCH STRATEGIES & CASE STUDIES
Strategies
#1 Review Your Research
#2 Place Your Ancestors in Historical Context
#3 Study Cluster Communities
#4 Seek Passenger List Substitutes
Summary
Case Studies

APPENDIX