The Gilded Age and Immigration

The video explores the Gilded Age, marked by industrial growth and immigration waves. The Old Wave brought Western Europeans seeking jobs, while the New Wave included Southern and Eastern Europeans and Asians, often facing discrimination. Assimilation theories like the melting pot and salad bowl emerged. Immigrants faced harsh conditions and nativist opposition, leading to restrictive laws like the Chinese Exclusion Act. Despite America's golden reputation, the reality was challenging for many immigrants.

What was the primary reason many immigrants came to America during the Gilded Age?

• To find job opportunities

• To escape religious persecution

• To join family members

• To experience American culture

Which group of immigrants was part of the Old Wave?

• Eastern Europeans

• Southern Europeans

• Asians

• Western Europeans

What was a significant difference between the Old Wave and New Wave immigrants?

• Old Wave immigrants were more educated

• New Wave immigrants were wealthier

• Old Wave immigrants faced more discrimination

• New Wave immigrants were primarily from Western Europe

What does the 'melting pot' theory suggest about American culture?

• It should be a mix of all cultures

• It should remain unchanged

• It should dominate and assimilate other cultures

• It should be replaced by immigrant cultures

What was the purpose of Ellis Island during the immigration waves?

• A detention center for illegal immigrants

• A processing center for European immigrants

• A cultural exchange center

• A housing facility for new immigrants

What was a common issue faced by immigrants in large American cities?

• Abundant housing options

• Lack of job opportunities

• Overcrowded and unsanitary living conditions

• Excessive wealth

What was the Know-Nothing Party's stance on immigration?

• They supported open immigration policies

• They advocated for stricter immigration laws

• They encouraged cultural diversity

• They promoted immigrant rights

Which group was most affected by the Chinese Exclusion Act?

• Japanese immigrants

• Chinese laborers

• German immigrants

• Irish immigrants

What was the outcome of the United States v. Wong Kim Ark case?

• Chinese immigrants were granted citizenship

• The Chinese Exclusion Act was repealed

• American-born children of Chinese immigrants were granted citizenship

• All Asian immigrants were barred from citizenship

What was a major concern of the Immigration Restriction League?

• The spread of socialism and communism

• The lack of skilled laborers

• The decline of American culture

• The increase in European immigrants