Ellis Island Wave (1880-1920)
In 1882, Ellis Island opened. It's purpose was to serve as an immigration station for immigrants to pass through before they could be allowed into the country. Ellis Island is located next to the Statue of Liberty, which was usually the first thing immigrants saw on the horizon as they neared the coast. Once a the immigrants got to the Island they would go through security, medical examinations and legal inspections. If they passed on their exams and inspections, they would be allowed to enter the U.S.
Also during this time many people began immigrating from Asian countries, however, these people usually did not pass through Ellis Island because many of them immigrated through western states, such as California. Asians immigrated for many of the same reasons as the Europeans, such as to escape economic hardship and to create a better life.
Some CountriesImmigration through Ellis Island:
Immigration through Western states:
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Push Factors
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Pull Factors
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