Who Are the Immigrants?
The United States has always been a magnet for immigrants. They have come for religious freedom, for a chance to better their lives, and to escape from cruel governments.
Immigrants have come in three great waves. In the mid-1800s, millions of people arrived from northern and western Europe. Most came from Germany and Ireland.
The second wave of immigration was from the late 1800s to the 1920s. These immigrants came mainly from southern and eastern Europe. Most of them came from Italy.
Immigration slowed after World War I for two reasons. First, the United States government set limits on the number of immigrants who could enter the country. Second, the American economy began to suffer, or slow down, in 1929. Many people struggled with poverty, and jobs were hard to find.
After World War II ended in 1945, immigration began to grow again. In 1965, the government made it easier for people to come to the United States. By the 1970s, millions of people were coming. They all came hoping for a better life.
The Three Waves of Immigrants, 1850 to 2000
Interpret the Map From which countries did most immigrants come during each time period? During which time period did immigrants come from the greatest variety of countries?
The highest percentage of immigrants came from these countries in each time period.
Mid-1800s to late 1800s
Late 1800s to 1920s
Mid-1960s to 2000