Is an alien registration form sufficient proof?

[Mpurpura99]

My grandfather was born in Italy in 1889 and came to this country in 1891. As far as I know, my GGF never naturalized. My father was born in 1917 and I have my GFs alien registration form from USCIS dated 1940. Am I correct that the AR form proves my GF was still an Italian citizen when my father was born, or do I need to research GGF as well? It’s so hard to prove a negative! Thanks

[mler]

You’re right. Proving a negative is difficult. Logically the alien registration card should be all you need, but to be on the safe side, try to get a “non existence of record” from USCIS. Also census records for 1920 and 1930 would also help. They are available through NARA.

[manu2020]

Hello! is there anyone who can help me to find registration of emigration data from TRENTO to South America?

Thank You

[Mpurpura99]

Thanks. The more I look at records available online the more contradictions I find. I suspect that GF and GGF just made stuff up when “the government” asked them questions. Still, everything seems to indicate that neither of them ever naturalized so I guess I’ll just gather up every document I can lay hands on!