Immigrant Life and Labor in an Expanding Economy

These flashcards cover key concepts related to immigrant life and labor during the period from 1865 to the present, emphasizing terms and definitions important for understanding American social history.

Immigration

The act of coming to live permanently in a foreign country, often seen in the context of individuals moving from one nation to another in pursuit of better opportunities.

Push factors

Conditions that drive people to leave their home country, such as economic hardship, political instability, or religious persecution.

Pull factors

Attributes of a destination that draw immigrants, including economic opportunities, educational prospects, and family ties.

Chain migration

A process whereby immigrants from a particular area follow others from that area to a new destination, often to rejoin family or friends.

Padrone

A labor boss who secures employment for immigrants, often charging them fees and controlling their wages.

Transnationalism

The ability of individuals or families to maintain connections across national borders, often reflected in migration patterns and familial ties.

Cultural assimilation

The process by which individuals or groups adopt the cultural norms of another group, often seen in immigrant communities.

Naturalization

The process by which a foreign citizen becomes a citizen of a new country, typically involving legal requirements and paperwork.

Urbanization

The process by which an increasing percentage of a population comes to live in urban areas, often fueled by immigration and economic opportunities.

Yiddish

A language historically spoken by Ashkenazi Jews, combining elements of German, Hebrew, and Slavic languages.