Joseph Schafer
The Yankee and the Teuton in Wisconsin
"The Yankee and the Teuton in Wisconsin" by Joseph Schafer is a historical account written in the early 20th century. The work explores the cultural and social dynamics between the Yankee settlers from New England and the German immigrant communities in Wisconsin, particularly in terms of their differing relationships with the land and agricultural practices. It aims to provide insights into how these groups contributed to the development and transformation of the state's agricultural landscape. The opening portion of the narrative sets the stage by discussing Wisconsin's racial and cultural demographics at the time of its statehood. Schafer notes that while the state is commonly viewed as a "Teutonic state" due to the significant presence of German immigrants, it had initially been settled by Yankees from New England. He meticulously details the timelines of settlement, the preferences of these groups regarding land selection—Yankees favoring open prairie while Germans preferred wooded areas— and their distinct farming techniques. Additionally, he indicates the statistical and geographical factors that shaped these patterns, laying the groundwork for a deeper exploration of cultural exchange and conflict between these two communities as they navigated the challenges of living and working in a rapidly changing environment.