A Mismatch between Migrant Identities and Consular Representations. Migration from East Central Europe to Latin America, 1867–1945

Abstract

This article analyses transatlantic migration from multi-ethnic East Central Europe in the period 1867–1945. Since ethnic belonging and political frontiers did not coincide, official identities did not necessarily correspond to personal identities. This became more pronounced in the migratory process, for there was a clear tendency of higher proportion of minorities among those who left. As dominating nations changed in the region, so did the ethnic composition of emigrants, leading to a long-lasting mismatch between immigrants and foreign representations, such as consulates, which were supposed to protect their interests. The result was a search for alternatives, contributing to the establishment of cultural and other associations, both from below (immigrants) and from above (corresponding states).