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Lesson 29 of 84 · Immigration

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European Immigration Waves

🌍Mission Brief #29

Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, the United States experienced several waves of European immigration.

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Then & Now

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Throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, the United States experienced several waves of European immigration. Many people came from countries like Ireland, Germany, Italy, and Poland, seeking better opportunities and escaping hardships such as famine, war, and political unrest. Each wave brought distinct cultures and traditions, enriching American society. The immigrants faced challenges, including discrimination and adjusting to a new life, but their contributions helped shape the nation’s identity.

Key Facts

1

The first wave of European immigrants included many Irish fleeing the Potato Famine in the 1840s.

2

German immigrants were among the largest groups arriving in the U.S. during the mid-1800s.

3

By the early 1900s, Italians made up a significant portion of new arrivals, particularly in urban areas.

Check Your Understanding

Question 1

1 of 2

Which country did many immigrants flee from during the first wave of European immigration?

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European Immigration Waves

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European Immigration Waves — Immigration | 5th Grade Social Studies | LittleActivity