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New Immigrants

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AP US History

Definition

New Immigrants refers to the wave of immigrants who arrived in the United States between the 1880s and the early 1920s, primarily from Southern and Eastern Europe, as well as Asia. This group differed significantly from earlier immigrants, as they often faced cultural and language barriers, leading to distinct challenges in assimilation and acceptance in American society.

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5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

  1. New Immigrants included large numbers of Italians, Poles, Russians, Jews, and Chinese, contributing to the diverse fabric of American society.
  2. Many New Immigrants settled in urban areas, leading to the growth of ethnic neighborhoods that maintained cultural traditions and languages.
  3. The Immigration Act of 1924 aimed to limit immigration from certain countries, reflecting the backlash against New Immigrants and reinforcing nativist sentiments.
  4. New Immigrants often took low-wage jobs in factories and industries, fueling America's rapid industrial growth during this period.
  5. Despite their contributions, New Immigrants faced discrimination and prejudice from some native-born Americans who viewed them as threats to jobs and cultural values.

Review Questions

  • How did the arrival of New Immigrants impact American cities during the late 19th and early 20th centuries?
    • The arrival of New Immigrants significantly transformed American cities by leading to rapid urbanization and the creation of ethnic neighborhoods. As these immigrants settled in urban areas, they brought their cultural traditions, languages, and social networks, which contributed to a rich tapestry of diversity. This influx also fueled industrial growth as they filled labor shortages in factories, but it also strained urban infrastructure and services as cities struggled to accommodate the growing population.
  • Evaluate the responses of native-born Americans to New Immigrants during this period. What were some common attitudes and policies adopted?
    • Native-born Americans exhibited a mix of curiosity, acceptance, and hostility towards New Immigrants. While some welcomed their contributions to society and labor, others feared that these newcomers would disrupt social norms and take jobs away from existing citizens. This resulted in the rise of nativism, which manifested through organized movements and restrictive policies like the Immigration Act of 1924, aimed at limiting immigration from certain countries based on racial and ethnic biases.
  • Assess the long-term effects of New Immigration on American society and culture. In what ways have these influences shaped contemporary America?
    • The long-term effects of New Immigration are evident in contemporary America's cultural diversity, social dynamics, and economic development. The customs, traditions, and cuisines brought by New Immigrants have enriched American culture, making it more pluralistic. Additionally, many descendants of these immigrants have integrated into various aspects of society while preserving elements of their heritage. Their influence is also seen in labor movements that sought better working conditions and rights for all workers, shaping modern labor laws and immigrant rights advocacy that continue to resonate today.
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