Author Description

From 1820 through 1924, approximately 36 million immigrants made their way from their homelands to America because it was perceived as the land of freedom and opportunity. Some of the many reasons why they came included religious freedom, economic opportunities, better farm lands, and avoidance of racial and political persecution. However, in all cases, one reason was central to all the othrs; they simply wanted an opportunity to make a better life for their families. And because of that overriding reason, they came; many unable to read or write, many with not much money in their pockets, many who did not know the language or customs, and many who really had no idea of where they would eventually live once they got here. But, against all these odds -- as well as the arduous voyage, ethnic slurs and prejudices they incurred -- they made it here, and over time, managed to do all the strenuous work needed to build a new life in America. To own a home, provide an education for their children, and to eke out a modest living for their loved ones.