Emma Lazarus

Definition

Emma Lazarus was an American poet and activist born in 1849, best known for her sonnet 'The New Colossus,' which she wrote in 1883. This poem, inscribed on a plaque at the Statue of Liberty, symbolized hope and welcome for immigrants arriving in America during a time of significant new immigration waves. Lazarus's work became emblematic of the struggle for social justice and the embrace of diversity, linking her legacy to themes of nativism and the changing attitudes toward immigrants.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Emma Lazarus came from a wealthy Jewish family and was well-educated, allowing her to become an influential voice for Jewish refugees fleeing persecution in Europe.
2. Her poem 'The New Colossus' was written to help raise funds for the pedestal of the Statue of Liberty and was largely overlooked until after her death.
3. Lazarus's advocacy for immigrants was rooted in her own experiences as a member of a marginalized group, making her work deeply personal.
4. The phrase 'Give me your tired, your poor' from her poem has become an iconic representation of America's commitment to welcoming immigrants.
5. Lazarus's legacy continues to inspire discussions about immigration, identity, and the role of the United States as a nation of immigrants.

Review Questions

• How did Emma Lazarus’s poem 'The New Colossus' reflect changing attitudes toward immigration during her time?
  • 'The New Colossus' reflects changing attitudes by presenting a compassionate view of immigrants as integral to America's identity. Written at a time when nativism was rising, Lazarus countered this sentiment by portraying the Statue of Liberty as a beacon of hope. Her poem emphasized acceptance and inclusion, contrasting sharply with the growing hostility toward new immigrants.
• In what ways did Emma Lazarus's background influence her views on immigration and social justice?
  • Emma Lazarus's background as a Jewish woman from a wealthy family deeply influenced her activism. Witnessing anti-Semitism and being part of a marginalized community herself, she empathized with the plight of immigrants seeking refuge. Her life experiences fueled her passion for advocating for social justice and ensuring that America remained a welcoming place for all.
• Evaluate the impact of Emma Lazarus's literary contributions on contemporary discussions surrounding immigration policy in the United States.
  • Emma Lazarus's literary contributions have had a lasting impact on contemporary discussions about immigration policy by framing the narrative around compassion and inclusivity. Her poem has become a rallying cry for immigrant rights, inspiring movements that challenge restrictive immigration laws. In modern debates, her work is often referenced to argue for policies that embrace diversity, highlighting the importance of maintaining America's identity as a nation built by immigrants.

Related terms

The New Colossus: A sonnet by Emma Lazarus that describes the Statue of Liberty as a welcoming figure for immigrants, contrasting it with the ancient Colossus of Rhodes.

Nativism:

A political policy that favors the interests of established inhabitants over those of immigrants, often leading to anti-immigrant sentiment.

Immigration Act of 1924:

A law that established quotas based on national origins, severely limiting immigration from Southern and Eastern Europe and favoring Western European nations.