Glossary of Terms and Policies/Laws Terms Acculturation : Immigrants blend cultural elements, retaining some while adopting new practices. Angel Island : West Coast immigration station for Asian immigrants, known for stricter scrutiny. Assimilation : Immigrants adopt new cultural norms, sometimes losing original identity. Cultural Rhetoric : Messaging about societal changes; Nativist rhetoric portrayed immigrants as threats. Ellis Island : Main East Coast immigration station (1892–1954), processing millions of Europeans. Ethnic Resilience : Immigrant groups maintain culture despite discrimination and hardship. Generational Impact : How one generation’s experiences shape future ones, influencing adaptation or resistance. Immigrant Enclaves : Neighborhoods preserving immigrant culture (e.g., Little Italy, Chinatown). Nativism : Movement prioritizing native-born citizens, fearing immigrant disruption to stability. Political Cartoons : Illustrations addressing issues; Nativist cartoons often negatively depicted immigrants. Propaganda : Media influencing opinions; Nativist propaganda portrayed immigrants as threats. Pull Factors : Conditions attracting immigrants, like jobs or freedoms. Push Factors : Conditions forcing emigration, like poverty or persecution. Statue of Liberty : Symbol of freedom and opportunity, welcoming immigrants to Ellis Island. Policies and Laws 1917 Immigration Act : Imposed literacy tests to limit less-educated immigrants, targeting Southern and Eastern Europe. American Protective Association (1887) : Anti-Catholic group promoting Protestant values. Chinese Exclusion Act (1882) : First U.S. law banning immigration based on ethnicity, targeting Chinese laborers. Gentlemen’s Agreement (1907) : U.S.-Japan deal limiting Japanese immigration without formal legislation. Indian Removal Act (1830) : Forced Native tribes west of the Mississippi, causing the Trail of Tears. Know-Nothing Party (1855) : Advocated restrictions on immigrant rights and opposed Catholic immigration. Treaty of New Echota (1835) : Ceded Cherokee land; opposed by many, leading to forced removal. Worcester v. Georgia (1832) : Affirmed Cherokee sovereignty, ignored by President Jackson.
