Immigration Waves to America Between 1870 and 1920

Between 1870 and 1920, about 20 million Europeans immigrated to the US, seeking freedom, economic opportunities, and escaping persecution. Asian immigrants, including Chinese and Japanese, also arrived, contributing to infrastructure like the transcontinental railroad. Caribbean and Mexican immigrants moved due to economic and political unrest. Immigrants faced harsh travel conditions and challenges in adapting to a new culture. They often settled in ethnic neighborhoods, maintaining their customs. Nativism grew, leading to anti-immigrant policies like the Chinese Exclusion Act and the Gentleman's Agreement, reflecting tensions over cultural integration and job competition.

What was one of the main reasons many Europeans immigrated to the United States between 1870 and 1920?

• To escape religious persecution

• To explore new cultures

• To find better educational opportunities

• To join family members already in the U.S.

Which group of immigrants contributed significantly to the construction of the first transcontinental railroad in the U.S.?

• Mexican immigrants

• Chinese immigrants

• German immigrants

• Italian immigrants

Why did many people from the Caribbean islands migrate to the United States between 1880 and 1920?

• To join religious communities

• To pursue higher education

• To find employment opportunities

• To escape political unrest

What was a common challenge faced by immigrants traveling to the United States by steamboat?

• Language barriers

• Unhygienic conditions

• Cultural differences

• Lack of food

What was the primary function of Ellis Island in the immigration process?

• To offer language classes

• To serve as a cultural exchange center

• To provide housing for new immigrants

• To inspect and process arriving immigrants

How did ethnic neighborhoods help immigrants adjust to life in the United States?

• By allowing them to maintain their customs and language

• By offering free education

• By providing financial assistance

• By organizing political rallies

What was the perception of America as a 'melting pot' at the beginning of the 20th century?

• A nation with a single dominant culture

• A country with strict immigration laws

• A society where different cultures blended together

• A place where all cultures remained separate

What was the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882?

• An agreement to increase trade with China

• A policy that restricted Chinese immigration

• A law that encouraged Chinese immigration

• A treaty to protect Chinese workers' rights

What was the Gentleman's Agreement between the U.S. and Japan?

• A treaty to improve trade relations

• An agreement to increase Japanese immigration

• A pact to protect Japanese cultural heritage

• An understanding to limit Japanese immigration

What was a significant factor that led to the rise of nativism in the United States?

• The economic boom of the 1920s

• The blending of different cultures

• The fear of job loss among American workers

• The increase in international travel