During the period from the mid-1890s to 1914 America
witnessed an unprecedented wave of immigration to her
shores. The majority of this influx came from Eastern
and Southern Europe. Those who could not afford the
cost of a first or second-class ticket for the passage
to the New World were taken to screening centers such
as Ellis Island in New York City's harbor. Those who
suffered from a communicable disease or lacked sponsorship
were turned away. Many who passed inspection made their
way to the farms, mines, forests or other places of
employment in America's heartland. The majority ended
up in the cities along America's east coast.
These new arrivals have successfully navigated through
Ellis Island's inspection process and are now experiencing
the mixed emotions of exhilaration and trepidation
as they prepare to face a new life in the "Promised
Land."
Related EyeWitness Accounts:
Passage to America, 1750
Immigrating to America, 1905 |
