Question

In the 1800s, both “old” and “new” immigrants to the United States faced discrimination because of
a decline in economic growth.
worries about overpopulation.
high US unemployment levels.
differences in culture and language.

Answer 1

In the 1800s, both “old” and “new” immigrants to the United States faced discrimination primarily because of **differences in culture and language**. Old immigrants, who mostly came from Northern and Western Europe (e.g., England, Ireland, Germany), and new immigrants from Southern and Eastern Europe (e.g., Italy, Poland, Russia) encountered prejudice due to their distinct cultural practices, languages, and religions. This discrimination was often exacerbated by economic competition and social tensions, but the root of much of the bias derived from these cultural differences.