European American


A European American, or a Euro-American, is a person who resides in the United States and is either the descendant of European immigrants or from Europe themselves.[1] They are classified as White in the United States Census, 2000.

Use

The term European American is more narrow than White American in that these terms in their official usage. The term is different than Caucasian American, White American, and Anglo American.[2] It should, however also be mentioned that the term "European Americans" is sometimes used as a synonym for White Americans. According to the Texas Association of Museums, "European American," White American, Caucasian American or Anglo are terms that vary in their preference depending on the individual and their descent.,[3] Anglo is a term commonly used in the southwestern United States, because of that term combines a number of distinct ethnicities under a single rubric with origins in England. The term also has a more specific reference than either White American or Caucasian American since both of these terms include a larger group of people than is acknowledged in Europe. Also, whereas White American and Caucasian American carry somewhat ambiguous definitions, depending on the speaker, European American has a more specific definition and scope. According to sociologist Rosanne Skirble, the term European American has increased somewhat in use but White American, Caucasian American and Anglo continue to be equally preferred depending on the descent of the given individual(s) or group to which the term refers.[4]

Origin

The term was coined by some in response to the increasing racial diversity of the United States, as well as in recognition of this demographic diversity moving more into the mainstream of the society in the latter half of the 20th century.Historically, the concept of an American was conceived in the US as a person of mixed European ancestries to the exclusion of African Americans and Native Americans.[5] As a linguistic concern, the term is often meant to discourage a dichotomous view of the racial landscape. Margo Adair suggests that the recognition of specific European American ancestries allows certain Americans to become aware that they come from a variety of different cultures.[6]

Culture

American culture is essentially European culture and primarily of British origin.[7] European American cultural lineage can be traced back to Europe and is institutionalized in the form of its government and civic education.[7]

See also

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Citations