From Alien to Citizen

by Edward A. Steiner

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Hardcover

Published January 1, 1975

About the author

Edward Alfred Steiner (1866-1956).

Reviews

[Galicius · Rating 2 out of 5]

His life and the challenges he faced as an immigrant during the era of long steamship crossings and the struggle from New York to the Midwest are undoubtedly commendable. However, I wish he had provided more detailed information about his locations and timelines. The states are rarely mentioned, and the names are often obscure, requiring the reader to conduct additional research to learn more.

He mentions a wife and three children very briefly in the last chapters. He quickly describes extensive trip to Europe, even going to meet Tolstoy. When was that?
He preaches at the Lower Town Church for four years. Where was that, perhaps in St. Paul, Minnesota? It certainly could not have been Manhattan’s Lower East Side.
Why did he choose Congregationalist Protestantism?

[Elliott · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just re-read this book. Originally I had to read it for a high school course back in 2000, and then read it again in 2004. It is sometimes hard to find (both times previously I had to get it through a college library). It is worth it though.

This is a well written memoir of an Eastern European immigrant who comes to America. He travels throughout the U.S. region between New York City and Chicago. He discusses saloons and drinking (pseudo-temperance movement), labor conditions, workers strikes, ethnicities within the cities and towns he visits, and theology.

Steiner's stance and opinions on the matters listed above either evolve or are enrichened by his experiences in his travels, the communities he lives in, and the different jobs he takes. The entire time though it is clear what his position is. This helps to orient the reader to his vantage point and gain the insight into late 1800s and early 1900s America. In effect you know him so well you would know how you see the world if you went back in time as him.