History and Impact of Immigration

OVERVIEW

Immigration history is an examination of the story of the United States. There are unmistakable symbols, undeniable contributions, and unfathomable problems that have resulted from the long history of people coming to America. The reasons they came offer us insight into the reasons they still come, and an examination of past issues helps us to understand current issues.

TASK

Your assignment is to create a representation of the history of immigration in the United States. You can do this on a poster board or in an electronic form, such as PowerPoint. Which ever deliver method you choose, you must be able to provide information, pictures, and/or charts about the topics and questions below. To accomplish this, you will need to use information presented in class and read the resources listed in the General Resource section.

Centerpiece

“The Middle of Everywhere” – Complete this activity based on this book by a Lincoln author. This will be the centerpiece of your project.

Journey

Describe conditions on the ships
Include a description of steerage

Push and Pull Factors

definitions for both
provide examples of both

Waves of Immigration

Old Immigrants
New Immigrants
Provide a time period and map of at least three countries from each

Statue of Liberty

A brief history
Explanation of symbols

Processing Centers

Ellis Island
Angel Island
Process and Inspections

Views

Examine the different views (those supporting Open Door Policy and those supporting Closed Door Policy) toward immigration.
Write a paragraph explaining your own view including your reasons.