From Austrian Immigrant to American Citizen, Arnold ...

Arnold Schwarzenegger is a testament to the American dream. Similarly, it is questionable if megastar Arnold Schwarzenegger would’ve been what he is today, if not for his decision to pursue bodybuilding and immigrate to the U.S. from his homeland, Austria. After years of hard work, dedication, and eventual success, the athlete was finally awarded the long-sought American citizenship in 1983. Reminiscing it as among the proudest days of his life, he celebrated it in an iconic way to express his love for the nation.

After 40 years of being an American by heart and by law, a resurfaced picture from the memorable day was shared on Twitter. It depicted Schwarzenegger donning an all-American flag look. This illustrated a glimpse of his notable celebrations. 

The 75-year-old pro was born into a family of humble possessions. The World War further pushed the family into poverty. Therefore, he was aware that he shall have to earn his own bread soon and chart his own path to success. The meager amount of opportunities in Austria encouraged him to contemplate moving to America, the land of opportunities. He was star-eyed by the immense development in the country, shown in newspapers, and pondered upon his farm life. 

Embarking on his powerlifting journey at 13, Schwarzenegger knew it was the best way to reach his land of dreams. He also served in the Austrian army and later on, immigrated to the U.S. in 1968 after winning a Mr. Universe title. Nine years later, he completed his graduation and after 15 years of living as an immigrant, he was finally marked as a United States citizen at the Shrine Auditorium in Los Angeles. 

His greatest dream had turned into reality. He expressed his jubilation by wearing an American flag tank top and hat, clutching a miniature flag along with a huge one in the backdrop. Although, that was only the start of his influential presence in the country. Soon, he went on to become the 38th Governor of California in 2003, an extraordinary achievement for a prior immigrant. However, his past citizenship status restricted him from one single thing. 

As per sources, soon after gravitating towards politics in 2003, he was met with great success in the elections. As a man of soaring ambitions, the 6’2” athlete now aimed for the presidential elections against Donald Trump in 2016. Unfortunately, he couldn’t run because he wasn’t born as a U.S. citizen. 

“If I’d been born in America, I would’ve run. Because now? This was a very good time to get in the race,”  he told sources. 

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A truly inspirational story, don’t you think? Tell us in the comments.