Heimler's History: Responses to Immigration (1865-1898)

Context

• Period Covered: 1865-1898
• Background: Huge waves of European and Asian immigrants arrived in America during the Gilded Age, settling in urban industrial centers and working in factories under dangerous conditions.

American Responses to Immigration

Nativism

• Definition: Policy of protecting the interests of native-born Americans over immigrants.
• Concerns:
  • Immigrants were seen as a threat to American identity.
  • Debate over assimilation vs. cultural retention among immigrants.
• Notable Figures: Henry Cabot Lodge warned of "race suicide" from intermingling with immigrants.
• Organizations: American Protective Association (APA) opposed Catholics due to large numbers of Irish Catholic immigrants.

Labor Unions

• Position: Opposed immigrants due to their willingness to work for lower wages.
• Concerns:
  • Immigrants undermined union negotiations with manufacturers.
  • Fear of job replacement during strikes.

Social Darwinism

• Theory: Applied biological Darwinism to societal structures, suggesting only the "fittest" cultures should survive.
• Beliefs:
  • Immigrants, especially Irish, viewed as racially inferior.
  • Fear of degrading the American gene pool through intermingling.

West Coast Immigration

• Demographics: Major influx of Asian immigrants, particularly Chinese.
• Chinese Contribution: Significant labor in constructing the transcontinental railroad and other jobs.
• Legislation: Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882 banned Chinese immigration, marking a significant racially targeted immigration law.

Positive Responses

Jane Addams and Settlement Houses

• Initiative: Founded Hull House in 1889 to aid immigrant assimilation.
• Services Provided:
  • English language education.
  • Early childhood education programs.
  • Introduction to democratic ideals and social activities.

Conclusion

• Challenges: Immigrants faced significant opposition during the Gilded Age.
• Support: Efforts like those of Jane Addams contributed positively to immigrant integration.

Remember, if you're preparing for the AP U.S. History exam, keep reviewing these key topics to ace your test!