New immigration

Definition

New immigration refers to the wave of immigrants who arrived in the United States primarily from Southern and Eastern Europe between the 1880s and the early 1920s. This period marked a significant shift from earlier waves of immigrants, as these newcomers often faced distinct challenges and cultural differences, influencing urbanization and societal changes in America.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. New immigration saw a significant increase in the number of immigrants arriving from countries such as Italy, Poland, Russia, and Greece, contrasting with earlier immigrants who primarily came from Western Europe.
2. Many new immigrants settled in urban areas, contributing to the rapid growth of cities and leading to diverse ethnic neighborhoods.
3. The experiences of new immigrants were often characterized by harsh working conditions in factories and low wages, which fueled labor movements and strikes during this period.
4. The rise of nativist sentiments led to the passage of restrictive immigration laws in the 1920s, reflecting fears about cultural differences and economic competition.
5. New immigration played a crucial role in shaping American identity, contributing to the cultural mosaic that defines the nation today.

Review Questions

• How did new immigration differ from previous waves of immigration to the United States, and what impact did this have on American society?
  • New immigration differed from earlier waves primarily in the regions of origin, with newcomers coming from Southern and Eastern Europe instead of Western Europe. This shift led to a greater diversity of cultures, languages, and traditions within American society. The influx of these new immigrants contributed to urbanization as they settled in cities, often facing difficult living conditions but also enriching the social fabric of America through their contributions to labor and culture.
• Discuss the role that Ellis Island played in the experience of new immigrants arriving in America.
  • Ellis Island served as a crucial entry point for new immigrants coming to America. It was here that millions were processed, undergoing medical exams and legal inspections before being allowed to enter the country. The experience at Ellis Island symbolized both hope and anxiety for many newcomers as they faced scrutiny while aspiring for a better life. The station's historical significance reflects how immigration shaped American identity during this era.
• Evaluate the long-term effects of new immigration on U.S. labor movements and policies throughout the 20th century.
  • The arrival of new immigrants significantly influenced U.S. labor movements by providing a large workforce willing to work under challenging conditions for low wages. This dynamic contributed to various labor strikes and the rise of unions advocating for better working conditions and fair pay. Over time, as nativist sentiments grew leading to restrictive immigration laws, these movements had to adapt, shaping policies around labor rights and immigration that would have lasting effects on America's economic landscape.

Related terms

Ellis Island: A major immigration station in New York Harbor where millions of immigrants were processed upon arrival in the United States, symbolizing hope for a new life.

Tenements: Overcrowded and often poorly maintained apartment buildings where many immigrants lived, highlighting the challenges of urban living during this period.

Nativism:

A political and social movement favoring the interests of native-born Americans over immigrants, often leading to discrimination and restrictive immigration policies.