South Asian immigration

Definition

South Asian immigration refers to the movement of people from countries such as India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Nepal, Bhutan, and Sri Lanka to other parts of the world, particularly the United States. This wave of immigration significantly contributed to the diversification and growth of the Asian American population, especially after changes in U.S. immigration laws in the 1960s that ended restrictive quotas, leading to increased opportunities for skilled workers and family reunification.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. South Asian immigration began to rise dramatically after the Immigration Act of 1965, allowing many professionals and skilled workers to enter the U.S.
2. The South Asian community in the U.S. is incredibly diverse, encompassing a range of cultures, languages, and religions including Hinduism, Islam, Sikhism, and Buddhism.
3. Many South Asians initially settled in urban areas with existing immigrant communities, which helped establish vibrant cultural enclaves in cities like New York, Los Angeles, and Chicago.
4. Economic factors play a significant role in South Asian immigration patterns, with many coming for educational opportunities or to fill high-demand jobs in technology and healthcare sectors.
5. Political unrest and conflict in South Asian countries have also driven emigration, with many fleeing war or persecution to seek safety and better opportunities abroad.

Review Questions

• How did the Immigration Act of 1965 impact South Asian immigration patterns to the United States?
  • The Immigration Act of 1965 had a profound effect on South Asian immigration by abolishing restrictive national origin quotas that favored European immigrants. This change opened up new pathways for individuals from South Asia to migrate to the U.S., particularly skilled professionals and those seeking family reunification. Consequently, this led to a substantial increase in the South Asian population within America, reshaping the demographic landscape and contributing to cultural diversity.
• Discuss how economic factors have influenced South Asian immigration trends to the United States since the late 20th century.
  • Economic factors have played a crucial role in shaping South Asian immigration trends, especially since the late 20th century. Many immigrants were drawn to the U.S. due to burgeoning job opportunities in fields like technology and healthcare, where there was a demand for skilled labor. Additionally, educational prospects attracted students from South Asia who sought degrees in reputable American institutions. This combination of employment and educational aspirations significantly contributed to the growth of the South Asian community.
• Evaluate the effects of political unrest in South Asia on migration patterns and how this has shaped immigrant communities in the United States.
  • Political unrest in South Asia has significantly impacted migration patterns by forcing individuals and families to flee conflict or persecution. Events such as wars, political upheaval, and social instability have created waves of refugees seeking safety and stability abroad. As these immigrants settle in the U.S., they bring their unique cultural identities and experiences with them. Over time, these communities have established strong cultural networks while also integrating into broader American society. This blend of heritage and adaptation enriches both their own lives and the overall cultural tapestry of the United States.

Related terms

Immigration Act of 1965: A landmark legislation that eliminated national origin quotas and led to a significant increase in immigration from Asia, including South Asia, changing the demographic landscape of the United States.

Diaspora: The dispersion of any group of people from their original homeland, which for South Asians has led to vibrant communities across various countries around the world.

Chain Migration: A process where immigrants sponsor family members to join them in a new country, which has been a common trend among South Asian immigrants in the U.S.