The Influx Of International Migrants - 1687 Words

Christelle Julien Summer 2015 Mr. Premisler AP U.S History Peopling The influx of international migrants resulted in an ethnically diverse society, giving rise to the concept of a melting pot. Though the first wave of immigration resulted in heightened ethnic tensions, the second wave of a more distinctive groups resulted in even more ethnic prejudice and xenophobia. The increase of immigrants also resulted in the worsening of life for African Americans. Ultimately, the large populations of immigrants caused cultural pluralism to take place in which ethnic differences were embraced rather than suppressed. During the early 1800s, there was a rapid increase of international migrants that would continue well†¦show more content†¦Large populations of migrants would later come from Asia, particularly China, and from Latin America. By 1990, minority groups made up 25 percent of population. 47 percent of immigrants came from Latin America, 37 percent from Asia and 13th percent from Europe and Canada. America by the end of the 20th century started to dispel their ethnic-based quotas and opened immigration to all parts of the world. Home to many immigrants, America earned the label of a melting pot. African Americans were the most adversely affected by the influx of international migrants. African Americans’ position socially suffered greatly as their importance in society dwindled due to their displacement in society. They were already restrained by economic and political inequality and their misfortune only amplified with the rapid flow of migrants. Racial prejudices prevented them from obtaining skilled professions so they resorted to unskilled jobs. As immigration heightened, they were pushed from jobs they held since the revolution. The Irish, especially, competed with them for domestic work and unskilled labor. Instead, African Americans resorted to being strikebreakers who were usually dismissed after the strike ended. The first wave of immigrants had little impact on the social culture of America as they simply were absorbed into society. The second wave of migrants, however, implanted themselves distinctly into American society and came to embrace their