Eastern immigrant
About 27 million immigrants came to America between 1870 and 1915. This massive influx of people contributed to crowded conditions and densely populated cities. Most eastern immigrants settled in cities along the eastern and northern coasts. These immigrants largely settled in ethnic neighborhoods that might include several different cultures from different countries. Poverty was common as many immigrants competed to find a foothold, but many were able to capitalize on economic opportunity and start new businesses.
western immigrant
Immigrants who came from countries west of the Pacific Ocean and from Mexico, Russia, Canada, Central America, and South America were processed through Angel Island in California. The great majority came from Asian countries, mainly China. Upon arriving and before disembarking, first-class passengers and Europeans were processed on board the ship. Only Asian, Mexican, and Russian immigrants were sent to Angel Island, demonstrating a bias or scrutiny against certain nationalities. Once on the island, they were processed and medically quarantined.
challenges of immigration experience
Eastern:
During this time, immigrants quickly learned that factory workers were very easily replaceable by factory bosses, and a high unemployment rate in cities left them with no bargaining power. Wages were often very low, and women and children as young as age 5 were paid half the wages of men for the same amount of work. The workday was between 12 and 16 hours long, six days a week, with no time off for illness, vacation, or holidays.
Western:
Only Asian, Mexican, and Russian immigrants were sent to Angel Island, demonstrating a bias or scrutiny against certain nationalities. Once on the island, they were processed and medically quarantined.
