US History: Immigration, Industrialization, and Urbanization

Introduction

Immigration, industrialization, and urbanization all had large impacts on America in the late 1800s and early 1900s. They were addressed in diverse ways and had different lasting impacts. In the following paragraphs, I will be addressing how these three things impacted America during this time. 

Immigration

One of the things that affected America during the late 1800s and early 1900s was immigration. Many immigrants came to the United States, thinking it would be a “land of opportunity”. It was better than the conditions they had to deal with back at their home country, but sometimes, they were discriminated against by the Americans. A notable example of this would be the Chinese Exclusion Act. Chinese immigrants dressed differently and had different religious practices from Americans. Because of this, serious discrimination against them began, including violence. This prejudice against them was so high that the Chinese Exclusion Act was passed to stop them from immigrating into America. 

Industrialization 

Another important thing that changed America around this time was industrialization. By 1880, a colossal number of factories were being built, which were used to make clothes, typewriters, motor vehicles, and even phones! An electric generating power station was even built in 1882. Because of all the factories, there was a huge need for jobs as well. Assembly lines were systems where each person would do one part of making an item over and over, so the system could make many of the product. Although these factories made things very efficiently, the conditions were poor. People were forced to do exhausting work for little pay. On top of that, children were often forced to do tedious tasks and would often lose limbs or teeth. 

Urbanization

The last thing I will talk about that affected America was urbanization. Since there were many immigrants from all over who did not feel like they belonged, they created their own mini cities for themselves to live together as if they were in their original country. A lot of Black American arts and culture entered Harlem, New York. These actions even became known as the Harlem Renaissance. 

Conclusion

There are many things that affected America during the late 1800s and early 1900s. Immigration was huge in America. Industrialization grew a lot and provided more jobs. Urbanization grew cities. These three things affected America in many ways and changed it a lot for the better or worse.