Further Research on Immigration: The Perspective of Immigrants
Was the rise of industrial growth in America an era of success or struggle? This economic landmark in American history bears a different significance depending on the perspective of the “storyteller.” A large percentage of these “storytellers” are immigrants, who, while having individual experiences, likely shared the opinion that their migration to the United States was both a success and a struggle.
Once immigrants completed their journey and squeezed through the crowded entrances of America, they would often congregate in communities of their same race. Not only did these communities allow for the continuation of culture in a new land, but they likely provided a sense of community and normality. Over time, an increase in population would transform these small communities, into larger towns with schools and churches. This transformation was either achieved by immigrants themselves or rather a result of help provided by an organization that aided immigrants. For example, German immigrants first formed various communities in Texas. This led to the creation of the “Society for the Protection of German Immigrants in Texas.” The organization helped immigrants to achieve their “American Dream” by offering employment and providing protection. The success of family and friends urged more Germans to migrate to America.
Not all immigrants received help from an organization nor were welcomed with ease. Black and Chinese individuals experienced persecution and were deemed "unable" to assimilate with the American lifestyle. African Americans were coming from the South with “blank minds." They had no home before they came to America, they had no religion nor prior government, or no previous flag to salute. They were willing to work and adapt to the American culture yet were prohibited to do so. Likewise, the Chinese Exclusion Act was put in place to stop Chinese from "stealing" jobs from Americans. In addition, leaders from both cultures argued that the United States was not allowing "freedom of religion" because it seemed Christianity was the expectation. These struggles did make immigration more challenging but personal dreams drove African-Americans and Chinese to continue their strive for success.
While many individuals were eager to migrate to America, other populations, including the Norwegians, were not originally intrigued by the country. The official class (high class) of Norway were content with their lives and worked to express to the public that America was not as awesome as it seemed. They were likely concerned that their working-class would leave the country. Nevertheless, the poorest farmers scraped together enough money to board departing ships. These first Norwegian immigrants sent letters home claiming that they preferred work in America over their work in Norway, the food was delicious, and they were enjoying their new life. These ecstatic messages spurred the migration of more Norwegians.
Overall, immigrants of varying races, cultures, and beliefs, faced different positive and negative experiences. Their arrival was a crucial component to the rise of Industrialism and their work contributed to economic success. Historic stories do not always share the perspective of each population that experienced an event. Yes, there was an overarching concept of the 1870s to 1900s: the booming economy, wealth divide, increased immigration. However, within the specific stories of a certain culture's migration to America are important details about beginning a new life that provides a more personal view of struggle and success.
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