Early European Settlers
Before the 19th century, European immigration was dominated by British, Irish, German, and Scandinavian settlers seeking religious freedom and economic opportunities in the New World.
19th Century Surge
The 1800s saw a massive increase in European immigration, with over 5 million Irish escaping famine and millions of Germans fleeing political unrest after the failed revolutions of 1848.
Ellis Island Era
From 1892 to 1954, Ellis Island processed over 12 million immigrants. Surprisingly, the busiest day recorded was April 17, 1907, with 11,747 individuals arriving.
Italian Influx Peaks
Italian immigration peaked between 1880 and 1920. Often overlooked is that Southern Italians faced significant discrimination and were considered racially distinct from Northern Europeans.
Eastern Europeans Arrive
The late 19th century marked the arrival of Jews and Poles escaping persecution and seeking economic stability. They often formed tight-knit communities in urban areas.
1924 Quota Act Impact
The Immigration Act of 1924 drastically cut European immigration by imposing quotas. Interestingly, it favored Northern Europeans and reduced the influx from Southern and Eastern Europe.
Post-WWII Displaced Persons
After WWII, the Displaced Persons Act of 1948 allowed over 400,000 Europeans displaced by the war to immigrate to the U.S., changing the demographic landscape significantly.
Who sought New World opportunities pre-19th century?
British, Irish, German, Scandinavians
Italians, Jews, Poles
Post-WWII displaced persons
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