Immigration Theories Aim How did Americans respond to

Immigration Theories

Aim: How did Americans respond to the influx of “new” immigrants? Do Now: Read the statements and answer; 1. Who would say this? 2. In what year do you think the comments were made? Why? a) 1790 s-1850 s b) 1850 s-1950 s c) 1950 s-2000 s

“. . Those who come here are generally of the most ignorant stupid Sort of their own Nation. Few of their children in the Country learn English. . . the Signs in our Streets have inscriptions in both languages. . . I suppose in a few years [interpreters] will be also necessary in the Assembly (Congress), to tell one half of our Legislators what the other half say. . . they will soon so outnumber us, that all the advantages we have will not in My Opinion be able to preserve our language, and even our Government will become precarious (be in danger). ” ~ Benjamin Franklin, May 9, 1753

“Why should Pennsylvania, founded by the English, become a Colony of Aliens, who will never adopt our Language or Customs, any more than they can acquire our Complexion. Which leads me to add one Remark: That the Number of purely white People in the World is very small. . . in Europe, the Spaniards, Italians, French, Russians and Swedes, are generally of what we call a dark Complexion; as are the Germans also. . . And while we are, as I may call it, clearing our Planet, by clearing America of Woods… why should we darken its People? why increase the Sons of Africa. ” ~ Benjamin Franklin, 1751

“The Italian comes in at the bottom. He "makes less trouble" than the Irishman. Like the Chinese, the Italian is a born gambler. His soul is in the game from the moment the cards are on the table, and very frequently his knife is in it too before the game is ended. ” ~ Jacob Riis, 1890

"If you kick every Latino out of this country, then who is going to be cleaning your toilet” ~ Kelly Osbourne, 2015

Review Nativism = Xenophobia: intense or irrational dislike or fear of people from other countries.

By 1911, a campaign to “Americanize” the “new” immigrants began in an attempt to change their cultural traits, values, and especially their languages. § The Bureau of Americanization encouraged employers to require English classes foreign-born workers. Most states banned teaching in other languages.

• "Melting Pot" Theory states that people from various cultures come to America and give parts of their culture to create a new, unique American culture. The contributions from many cultures are "melted" together to create one American culture. • The focus of this theory is “sameness”. This theory is also linked to Assimilation (idea that immigrants adopt the American culture and "Americanized" traditions. )

“The Mortar of Assimilation— And the One element that Won’t Mix [the Irish]”

• Salad Bowl Theory states that immigrants keep the unique parts of their culture and the differences are still identifiable within the larger American society. • The focus of this theory is to maintain the “differences” amongst Americans. This theory is also referred to as cultural pluralism. (plural= many cultures)

Melting pot or Salad Bowl? ? ?

Melting pot or Salad Bowl?

"America’s strength lies in its diversity. Many immigrant groups have joined the mainstream of American life, while maintaining their languages, religions, and traditions. This has made the United States a strong nation. " The author of this statement could best be described as a supporter of Nativism Cultural pluralism

Task: In groups of four complete the graphic organizer to discuss both immigration theories.

Vote: Which one is better for the United States; Melting Pot or Salad Bowl?