immigrants

The term describes a shift in the origin of those entering the United States, primarily occurring from the 1880s to 1920. Individuals arrived increasingly from Southern and Eastern European countries, rather than primarily from Northern and Western Europe as in earlier periods. These areas included Italy, Russia, Poland, and Greece. A defining characteristic was often cultural and religious differences compared to the established American population; many practiced Catholicism, Orthodox Christianity, or Judaism, and spoke languages other than English.

This demographic shift is significant because it fueled nativist sentiments and contributed to social tensions. Increased immigration led to debates about assimilation, cultural identity, and the economic impact of a large, often unskilled, labor force. Legislative actions, such as immigration quotas, were enacted to restrict further immigration from these regions. This period fundamentally reshaped the nations ethnic and religious composition, leaving a lasting impact on American society and politics.

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The term refers to individuals who arrived in the United States primarily from Northern and Western Europe prior to the 1880s. Prominent countries of origin included Great Britain, Ireland, Germany, and Scandinavia. These populations often possessed a degree of familiarity with democratic institutions and, in some cases, higher levels of literacy and occupational skills compared to later arrivals.

Their presence significantly shaped the cultural and economic landscape of the developing nation. They contributed substantially to the workforce, particularly in agriculture and skilled trades, and their cultural practices influenced American society. However, their arrival also sparked nativist sentiments as some native-born citizens expressed concerns about job competition and the preservation of existing cultural norms.

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