Analyze how attitudes toward immigration changed from the late 19th century to the early 20th century. What key events or social changes contributed to these shifts?

Question

what does attitude mean

Answer 1

Understanding Attitudes: Attitude refers to a settled way of thinking or feeling about something, often reflected in a person's behavior. In the context of immigration, attitudes involve the perceptions, beliefs, and emotional responses that individuals and societies have toward immigrants and immigration as a whole.

Attitudes Toward Immigration (Late 19th to Early 20th Century)

Late 19th Century

1. Open-Door Policy: During the late 19th century, particularly from the 1880s to the early 1900s, the United States maintained relatively open immigration policies. Industrial expansion created a high demand for labor, leading to a welcoming attitude toward immigrants, especially from Europe, who were seen as essential for fueling economic growth.

2. Immigration Waves: The late 19th century saw large waves of immigrants, particularly from Southern and Eastern Europe (including Italians, Poles, and Jews). These groups were often fleeing poverty, persecution, or political instability in their home countries and were welcomed as a vital workforce.

3. Cultural Pluralism: There was a prevailing notion of the "American Dream," which suggested that anyone could achieve success through hard work. This ideology often embraced cultural pluralism, where immigrants were perceived as contributing to the rich tapestry of American society.

Early 20th Century

1. Increasing Nativism and Restriction: As America moved into the early 20th century, attitudes began to shift towards nativism—a preference for native-born individuals over immigrants. This was influenced by economic downturns, such as the Panic of 1893, which led to fears about job competition and the economic stability of the nation.

2. Key Events Influencing Attitudes:

   • World War I: The first World War heightened nationalism and xenophobia. Many Americans viewed immigrants from Germany and other Central Powers with suspicion and hostility.
   • The Red Scare (1919-1920): The fear of communism, fueled by the Russian Revolution, led to increased suspicion of immigrants, especially those from Eastern Europe and Russia, who were often associated with radical political movements.
   • Legislative Changes: The Immigration Act of 1924 established quotas that severely restricted immigration from certain countries, particularly targeting Southern and Eastern Europeans, as well as virtually excluding Asian immigrants. This reflected a shift towards a more exclusionary and racially-based immigration policy.

3. Cultural Backlash: There was a growing belief that immigrants could not assimilate into American culture. This was driven by stereotypes and prejudices against the new immigrant groups, which emphasized differences in language, religion, and customs.

Conclusion

The shift in attitudes toward immigration from the late 19th century to the early 20th century was influenced by various economic, political, and social changes. Initially characterized by openness and acceptance, attitudes became more restrictive and xenophobic due to economic downturns, wars, social tensions, and legislative actions. This evolution reflects broader societal changes and the complexities of identity in a rapidly changing America.