Immigration

1. Describe the causes of the immigration of Southern and Eastern Europeans, Chinese, Koreans, and Japanese to America in the late 19th and early 20th centuries.
There were many reasons that Southern and Eastern Europeans, Chinese, and Koreans immigrated into the U.S. in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Many left their homes in order to escape religious persecution. Another cause was rising population, which meant scarce land for farming. The U.S. was believed to have plentiful jobs. Also, Europe was experiencing a time of revolt and reform, which led people to pursue an independent life and come to America for that reason. Many Chinese came for work, and many came when Hawaii began to hire Chinese. Some came just to make money then return home after they were successful.

2. Describe the journey immigrants endured and their experiences at United States immigration stations.
Immigrants often traveled in cargo holds, packed together. They had to sleep in beds infested with lice, and share toilets with other passengers. This caused disease to spread and some people died before they reached land. Then they had to endure the anxiety of whether or not they will be admitted into the country. They had to pass an inspection that took up to 4 or 5 hours in order to be allowed in the U.S. Angels Island for the Chinese was a miserable place of inspection. Those admitted into the nation were faced with the challenges of finding a home, a job, and adjusting to the American lifestyle and culture while learning and practicing the language. They used each other for support and assistance. All immigrants suffered racism and abuse from Americans.