Introduction

In this lesson you will examine how spatial diffusion occurs as a result of a phenomenon. The phenomenon to be examined is immigration. From 1800-1924 there was a great migration of Europeans to the United States. The reasons for this large number of immigrants coming to the United States included: overpopulation, land shortage, and unemployment, all were conditions that created severe economic burdens in Europe. These conditions, along with legalized religious persecution, caused many Europeans to decide to immigrate to the United States in search of better economic opportunities.

Arrival

The photo below is of Ellis Island which was the first stop for European Immigrants coming to America and it was a sign that the immigrants were on the way to the achieving the American dream. Ellis Island was opened January 1, 1892. This immigration station processed over 25 million immigrants and passengers who entered New York harbors from 1892 through 1924.

Source: Ellis Island, National Park Service

Causes of Immigration

The late 1800's and early 1900's was a period of tremendous immigration to the United States from Europe. As you watch the following video about European Immigration to the United States think about the following questions:

• Why did people want to come to the United States?
• What did the immigrants have to endure to make their move to America?
• How did immigrants have to adapt once they were accepted into the United States?
• What similarities do you see with immigration today?