American Immigration Mr. Bach United States History

U.S. Immigration

Before the Journey A ticket to America was very expensive. Often the father immigrated first and got a job. When the father made enough money, he bought a ticket for the rest of his family to come over.

Before the Journey Because the journey could be treacherous, women would not journey alone. Immigrants could only bring a small amount of personal belongings with them.

The Journey Most immigrants came to America on steamships. Since most immigrants were poor they were placed in steerage - cabins below the water level of the ship with no windows. Steerage was crowded, there were few bathrooms and rats were common.

Class Awareness Immigrants were very aware of differences in class. The rich were placed on higher decks and were the first to be given life boats. The rich were able to bypass immigration checks at places like Ellis Island.

Ellis Island

Ellis Island was the checkpoint for immigrants before they were allowed to enter New York City.

Approaching Ellis Island

Ellis Island An immigrant could be deported if: –They were sick with a contagious disease (they could be quarantined until they were better). –They had a criminal history. –They were sympathetic to communists or anarchists. Many immigrants had their names changed at Ellis Island so they sounded more “American.”

Inspection Pens at Ellis Island

Eye Inspection