Immigration Chapter 10, section 1

“New Immigrants” Prior to the 1870s, most immigrants had come from Protestant-dominated countries in northern and western Europe. These immigrants were generally accepted into the workforce. The “new immigrants” that arrived from the 1870s- early 1900s were generally unskilled, poor, catholic or Jewish from southern and eastern Europe. Because these immigrants came in such large numbers, Americans felt threatened by the numerous cultures and languages.

‘Push’ and ‘Pull’ Factors ‘Push’ factors factors that drove immigrants out of their home countries Loss of land Wars and political upheaval Religious persecution ‘Pull’ factors factors that attracted immigrants to the United States Large tracts of land Abundance of work Religious/political freedom Family already here

Immigrant Experience Immigrants faced both a difficult journey, as well as difficult process to be admitted into the United States. Journey Very little money only brought what was absolutely needed and could carry; Traveled in steerage, the crowded lower decks of a steamship; Cramped and dirty– illnesses spread very quickly, so some passengers did die during the journey

Arrival in America Immigrants coming from Europe would check in at Ellis Island in New York City. In order to enter, immigrants had to be healthy and show they had money, a skill, or a sponsor already in the United States. Only about 2% of immigrants were denied entrance into the U.S. Immigrants from Asia would check in at Angel Island in San Francisco. Most of the immigrants were Chinese, and often times kept for weeks at a time, unlike their Ellis Island counterparts.

Challenges for Immigrants Most immigrants lived in ethnic neighborhoods in cities once they had arrived because they were not accepted anywhere else. Many citizens were not accepting of these immigrants because of nativism– the belief that native-born, white Americans were superior to newcomers. Often times immigrants underwent a process known as Americanization. They would learn English and American dress. What Native American policy is this similar to? Some saw the U.S. as a ‘melting pot’ where people from all nationalities blended into one culture.