Exploring the Ellis Island Immigration Experience

Ellis Island was a major entry point for immigrants to the United States from 1892 to 1954. It processed 12 million immigrants, primarily from Europe, who traveled by steamship. Upon arrival, immigrants underwent health and legal inspections. Only 2% were deported. The process included a physical exam and legal questioning. Those who passed began new lives in America, while others faced detention or deportation.

What percentage of Americans are estimated to be descended from immigrants who passed through Ellis Island?

• 20%

• 30%

• 40%

• 50%

When did the first Ellis Island immigration station open?

• January 1, 1912

• January 1, 1902

• January 1, 1892

• January 1, 1882

From which regions did most immigrants travel to America?

• Central and South America

• Asia and Africa

• Eastern and Southern Europe

• Western and Northern Europe

How long could voyages from Europe to America take?

• One to two years

• One to two days

• One to two weeks

• One to two months

Where did first and second-class passengers sleep on the steamships?

• In steerage

• In staterooms and cabins

• On the deck

• In the cargo hold

What was the first step for immigrants upon arriving at New York Harbor?

• Interview with an interpreter

• Baggage check

• Health inspection

• Legal inspection

What was the purpose of the six-second physical exam?

• To verify their identity

• To assess public health risks

• To check for valid documents

• To determine their destination

What could happen to immigrants who failed the medical exam?

• They were allowed to enter the country

• They were immediately deported

• They were marked with chalk and examined further

• They were sent to a hospital

How many identifying questions were immigrants asked during the legal inspection?

• 40

• 10

• 29

• 20

What percentage of immigrants processed at Ellis Island were deported?

• 1%

• 2%

• 5%

• 10%