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.

The immigration of Southern and Eastern Europeans was caused by the idea of having a "better life" in America. There were more opportunities in America for all immigrants. Also, Europe became over populated so the immigrants knew they could be more successful in America. Farming land was scarce in Europe, too. The Chinese, Koreans, and Japanese came to America also because of the opportunities. They thought they could have a better life in America. Also, they emigrated from their homelands becaue they were afraid of religious and social prosecution. Over all, the main cause of the immigration from these countries was because of the chance of a better life and the opportunities.

2. Describe the journey immigrants endured and their experiences at United States immigration stations.

Immigrants coming to America from over the Atlantic Ocean, like the Europeans, would have to endure a week long trip over the ocean. Eventually there became a immigration stop at Ellis Island in New York Harbor. All they had to do was pass a physical examination by a doctor and an inspector checked documents and questioned them. They had questions like if they were ever convicted of a crime, had to demonstrate if they could work, and had to show if they had some money. The immigrants,the Asians, coming over on a three week trip across the Pacific Ocean also had to stop at an immigration place called Angel Island in the Sanfrancisco Bay. They had to take and be examined more meticulously. They had harder questions and it took longer to be admitted, and their holding buildings were filthy and poorly built. After they were admitted they had the difficulties of finding a place to live, a job, and understanding and coping with the new culture and language.