07USchangingCultureUP

A Changing Culture: Patterns and Challenges of US Immigration

Defining American Ancestry

• Ancestry as: origin of individuals, ethnic self-identification.

• U.S. Census Bureau (2004): Describes ancestry reflecting place of birth or ethnic identity.

Native Americans: The First Immigrants

• Mongolian tribes arrived in North America ~30,000 years ago.

• Developed a culture by 6000 B.C., population 1-4 million in 1600; today ~2 million.

Immigration in the Past: Enclaves and Assimilation

• Mass immigration in mid-19th to early 20th century, primarily from Europe.

• Established immigrant cities: New York, San Francisco, Philadelphia.

• Formation of ethnic enclaves: e.g., Little Italy, Jewish Quarter, Chinatown.

  • Provided community support and a gradual assimilation process.

Processes of Assimilation

• Defined as adapting to a new culture while generally abandoning original culture.

• Example: Jewish immigrants in the 1950s showcasing cultural integration while maintaining ethnic identity.

The Importance of Naturalization

• Naturalization: Official process for becoming a citizen.

• Helps integrate newcomers into the U.S. society.

• Requirements to apply:

  • At least 18 years old.

  • Lawful permanent resident.

  • Resided in the U.S. for 5 years.

  • Good moral character.

Who Are the Americans? - Melting Pot vs. Salad Bowl

• Melting Pot: Immigrants blend, losing original identities.

  • Ideal of individual liberty and the pursuit of the American Dream.

• Salad Bowl: Coexistence of ethnic identities, e.g., Irish-Americans, Asian-Americans.

  • Ethnicity persists and enriches the American identity.

Recent Immigration Patterns: Old and New Destinations

• Decline in immigration early 20th century; resurgence post-1970 from Latin America and Asia.

• By 2005, ~36 million legal and unauthorized immigrants in the U.S.

• Increased U.S. Diversity Index: In 2000, 49% chance two randomly selected people are of different races/ethnicities.

Changing Gateways and Settlement Patterns

• Declining old immigrant destinations and emergence of new areas (e.g., Southern cities).

• Transformation of neighborhoods into ethnic enclaves, economic-driven emigration.

New American Dreams and Realities

• Immigrant labor is essential for the U.S. economy; often in low-skilled jobs.

• Younger immigrant women aspire for upward mobility and personal success.

Health Implications for New Arrivals

• Trends in obesity among long-term immigrants now approaching U.S.-born rates.

Responses to New Demographic Revolution

• Changing immigration legislation throughout U.S. history.

  • Notable legislation: Immigration and Nationality Act Amendments (1965), Immigration Reform and Control Act (1986).

• Mixed public response:

  • Inclusive policies: Bilingual education support.

  • Exclusionary policies: Local laws limiting immigrant rights.

The Future?

• Ongoing debates on immigration reform and public sentiment.

• Immigration projected to significantly shape U.S. demographics in the 21st century, with immigrants possibly accounting for 65% of population growth.

References

• Diverse sources documenting immigration patterns, assimilation, and cultural implications.