Alternatively, conduct a safe search on the Internet or at your local library for information about Ellis Island and immigration in the late 1800s to early 1900s.
In addition, six primary documents should be used for this portfolio assignment. Perspectives from both immigrants and Americans opposed to immigration are represented in the primary documents. Analyze these documents for a firsthand perspective of immigration in America.
When analyzing the primary sources, think about the following questions:
What factual information is conveyed in this source?
What opinions are related in this source?
What is implied or conveyed unintentionally in the source?
What is surprising or interesting about the source?
How might others at the time have reacted to this source?
How does this source compare to the other primary sources?
How does this source compare to the other research you conducted?
Primary Source 1: Letter from an Immigrant Arriving at Ellis Island
- Factual information: The immigrant describes the conditions on the ship, the process of landing at Ellis Island, and the overwhelming feeling of being in a new country.
- Opinions: The immigrant expresses gratitude for the opportunity to come to America but also fear and uncertainty about what lies ahead.
- Implied information: The source implies the difficult journey and adjustment process that immigrants faced when coming to America.
- Surprising/interesting: It is interesting to see the firsthand account of an immigrant experiencing America for the first time.
- Reaction at the time: Others at the time may have empathized with the immigrant's struggles and admired their bravery in seeking a better life.
- Comparison: This source provides a personal perspective on immigration that complements the more general information found in other sources.
Primary Source 2: Anti-Immigration Political Cartoon
- Factual information: The cartoon depicts immigrants as a burden on society, taking jobs and resources away from Americans.
- Opinions: The cartoon implies that immigrants are lazy and inferior to Americans.
- Implied information: The source reflects prevailing nativist attitudes towards immigrants at the time.
- Surprising/interesting: It is surprising to see the blatant racism and xenophobia displayed in the cartoon.
- Reaction at the time: Others at the time who shared anti-immigrant sentiments would likely have found the cartoon amusing and validating.
- Comparison: This source contrasts sharply with the immigrant's firsthand account, illustrating the divide in public opinion on immigration during this period.
Overall, analyzing the primary sources provides a multifaceted view of immigration in America during the late 1800s to early 1900s. The firsthand perspectives of immigrants and anti-immigration Americans offer valuable insights into the challenges and prejudices faced by newcomers to the country. By comparing these sources and considering the broader historical context, a more nuanced understanding of this complex issue can be gained.