Page:The National Geographic Magazine Vol 31 1917.pdf/213



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there are about 500,000, of whom onehalf were born in this country. They are found in practically every State of the Union, though the majority live in the Central States. Many are independent farmers or artisans, and it is only fair to say that they are everywhere regarded as desirable citizens. They take active part in the political and public life of the country. Two United States Congressmen, a number of members of State legislatures, and numerous other public officials are of Czech descent.

In American science the names of men like Novy (Ann Arbor), Shimek (Iowa University), or Zeleny (University of Minnesota) are well known and honored, while the number of university students