Immigration to America: The Journey and Experience

Overview

• 12 Million Immigrants: Men, women, and children passed through corridors once noisy with life.
• Emotional Journeys: Many left families behind with heavy hearts.

Reasons for Emigration

• Europe's Loss: Industrial change and political unrest in Europe led to joblessness and poverty.
• Military Draft: Young boys were being taken into the army, leading families to fear separation.
• Persecution: Historic persecution of certain ethnic groups, like Armenians, Jews, and Slovaks.

The Journey to America

• Gathering Ports: Immigrants left from ports such as Naples, Piraeus, and Trieste.
• Birds of Passage: Some immigrants intended to return after earning money.

Processing and Travel

• Sea Passage: Immigrants traveled in steerage, often in harsh conditions.
• Port Cities: Bremen, Antwerp, Hamburg, and Liverpool served as processing centers.
• Health and Fumigation: Immigrants' clothes and baggage were fumigated for health reasons.

Arrival in America

• Steerage Challenges: Last in line, steerage passengers faced additional delays and scrutiny.
• Hope and Anxiety: Immigrants were both hopeful and fearful about their new lives.

Ellis Island Experience

• Processing: Immigrants processed and scrutinized for health and financial stability.
• Board of Inquiry: Final chance to appeal rejection.
• Great Hall: Main area where immigrants were assessed.

Emotional Impact

• Separation: Families often faced temporary separation.
• Identity and Hope: For many, America promised a life free from Europe's hardships.

Conclusion

• New Beginnings: Immigrants looked forward to starting anew in a land of opportunity.
• Cultural Impact: Despite the challenges, the migration left a lasting impact on American culture and demographics.