The Scandinavian immigrant group consisted primarily of Swedes, Norwegians, and Danes. Although their numbers were not as great as those of the Germans and English, collectively, the Scandinavian nations account for a great number of America's early immigrants. Scandinavian immigrants moved as families during the 19th century. The Swedes and Norwegians immigrated because of low paying jobs, crop failures, a weak monetary system and religious intolerance. Sometimes whole parishes would uproot and move to America. In Norway and Sweden in particular the ruling classes had a strangle hold on political power. In addition the Lutheran Church virtually controlled religious thought and practice. Many were becoming disenchanted with the hierarchical clergy and the rigid structuralism of the church. To these people America was seen as the promised land of freedom and prosperity. Letters with exaggerations about life in America had a major impact on Scandinavian immigration.
Once in America many of the Scandinavian immigrants moved to the Mid-west and became land owners and farmers. Many moved to Minnesota and established large farms in cold and relatively familiar environment. Finnish girls were in high demand as servant girls. Their protestant background made them more desirable than Irish girls. Those seeking religious tolerance often removed themselves from the Lutheran Church and became Methodist, Baptist or members of the Mission Friends. Others completely rejected organized religion in America.
Once in America many of the Scandinavian immigrants moved to the Mid-west and became land owners and farmers. Many moved to Minnesota and established large farms in cold and relatively familiar environment. Finnish girls were in high demand as servant girls. Their protestant background made them more desirable than Irish girls. Those seeking religious tolerance often removed themselves from the Lutheran Church and became Methodist, Baptist or members of the Mission Friends. Others completely rejected organized religion in America.
A Century Later
Americans with Scandinavian heritage are still centered around the northern Midwest.