During the late 19th century, the United States experienced a significant wave of immigration, especially from Southern and Eastern Europe. This change in the demographic makeup of the nation had profound impacts on American society, culture, and labor practices. Among the various immigrant groups, one of the most prominent was the Italian immigrants, who sought better economic opportunities and fled political turmoil and poverty in their homeland. Understanding who these immigrants were and the motivations behind their migration can help us grasp the broader context of this period.
Which group of immigrants primarily arrived in the United States during the late 19th century in significant numbers due to economic difficulties and political unrest in their countries?