Immigration Ch 3.3

Wednesday, February 22, 2012 Daily goal: Understand where most immigrants came from during this period and the significance of both Ellis and Angel Island. Think About it… During this time period the pledge of allegiance was written and mandatory in most schools. Why do you think immigrants were forced to say the pledge?

Land of Opportunity – 20 million Europeans arrive in the U.S. Pre-1900 – Most from Western and Northern Europe – (English, Irish, German) After 1900 – Most from Southern and Eastern Europe – (Italians, Greeks, Jews, Poles, Slavs) Small numbers of Chinese and Japanese settled in the West.

Welcome to America! Ellis Island (NY)- Processing center for most Immigrants arriving on the East Coast from Europe. Angel Island (SF Bay)- Where most immigrants from Asia were processed on the West Coast.

Not Welcome… The Nativism movement grew as more immigrants arrived. Congress passed the Chinese Exclusion Act (1910) which stopped Chinese immigration and prevents them from becoming citizens.

To the Cities Most immigrants stayed in big cities Sought out people of their native culture Formed ethnic communities –ex: Little Italy, the Jewish Lower East Side, China towns. Americanization movement –Schools and volunteers taught immigrants English, American history and civics –Goal was assimilation – lose native culture and become more American.

Urbanization Eugenics movement – the idea that Science could prove the superiority of certain races. Government restricted immigration from South and Eastern Europe and Asia. Urban problems – poor housing, water, sewage, crime. Tenements – small apartment slums –¾ of all New Yorkers live in them.

Political machines Kept corrupt politicians in power. Offered new immigrants jobs, important services in exchange for votes. William “Boss” Tweed- Notoriously corrupt politician runs NY and goes to jail. Politicians use Graft (fraud) to get rich. Stole gov’t money and took bribes.

Do you think most immigrants had the money to start their own business?

Working Conditions Long hours – 12 hours a day/6 days a week No vacation, sick time or unemployment Dangerous conditions – injuries and death common Women and children – all worked to help the family survive.