I am researching a deceased relative. He immigrated through Ellis Island as a boy in 1914, eventually changed (“americanized”) his name, and was naturalized in 1929 as a citizen. His name at birth was Andrea Compagna; he changed it to Andrew Mate. The name on his naturalization document is “Andrew Mate die Compagna.” In this context, I am guessing “die” is a Latin legal term meaning "born as" similar in intent to the French “née” for a married woman, but from the sources I have (internet and public library Latin and legal dictionaries) I am unable to confirm that. The closest I have come is possibly a past participle or something (I took Latin in high school many decades ago) of "dare" which in law could mean "given name"? "Deinde" ("from that place") looked positve because a dictionary said it may be abbreviated by poets to "dei" but the i and the e are in wrong order. I will appreciate any suggestions. Full disclosure: "Andrea Compagna/Andrew Mate" is not the real name. The man was my father, and he was a very private person. Even from wherever he is now, I am certain he would not want his name on display on any website! I apologize for the deception. Also, if this question does not belong here, I apologize. Thank you.
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