Immigration and Migration Pages 314-320

Building New Lives Immigrants came to escape unfair treatment, some came for religious freedom, and others for a chance to own land. Most came from Europe, Asia, Central America, and South America. Immigrants formed communities because they felt at home with those that shared their language and customs. Many people were also migrating form the U.S. to find a better life.

Contributions of Newcomers Immigrants brought new ideas and new ways of life. Newcomers used their talents as laborers, farmers, fishers, entrepreneurs, artists, writers, and teachers. Immigrants from Japan, Armenia, and Europe helped make the agricultural industry gro. For many, the geography and climate of California were similar to those of their home countries.

Facing Discrimination Hard economic times caused problems for immigrants. Californians felt immigrants were taking their jobs. Discrimination for immigrants grew out of prejudice. Congress passed the Chinese Exclusion Act to stop many Chinese people from entering the country. African Americans also faced prejudice and discrimination in California.

More Problems for California Indians Immigrants and migrants moved onto Indian lands. Many Indians were killed in conflicts with settlers and the Army. Many others were forced to live on reservations where they could not grow enough food to survive. The Modoc tribe fought the U.S. Army to stay on their land, but they were defeated.

Study Guide Why were many immigrants coming to the U.S.? Where were immigrants coming from? Why did many immigrants form their own communities? How were immigrants able to grow crops in California that they had grown in their homeland? Why did Congress pass the Chinese Exclusion Act in 1882? How did immigration and migration affect California Indians?