German immigration to Puerto Rico increased when German businessmen immigrated to Puerto Rico during the early part of the 19th century. However, it was the economic and political situation in Europe during the early 19th century plus, the fact that the Spanish Crown issued the Royal Decree of Graces (Real Cédula de Gracias) which allowed the immigration of Europeans who were not of Spanish origin to immigrate to the island, that contributed the most to the immigration of hundreds of German families to Puerto Rico in search of a better life. Puerto Rico was ceded by Spain to the United States under the terms of the 1898 Treaty of Paris, which ended the Spanish–American War and the U.S. established military bases there. Many soldiers of German-American descent stationed in the island intermarried with local women and established their homes there. With the passage of the Jones Act of 1917 Puerto Ricans could be conscripted to serve in the Armed Forces of the United States. Puerto Ricans fought in Germany during World War II and have served in U.S. military installations in said country since then. Many of these soldiers married German women who eventually moved to the island with their husbands. Puerto Ricans of German descent have distinguished themselves in different fields, among them the fields of science, business and military.
Read more about German Immigration To Puerto Rico: Early German Immigration, Spanish Royal Decree of Graces, Religious Influence, Influence in The Economy, 20th Century, German Influence in Puerto Rican and Popular Culture, German Consular Presence in Puerto Rico, Surnames of The First German Families in Puerto Rico
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