How were immigrants treated in the U.S. in the 1800s?

Many immigrants were taken advantage of and paid less than others for work in the 1800s, they had to deal with discrimination, and some suffered physical and verbal abuse for being different. Social tensions were high, and there was often competition between those already settled in the states.

About 70 percent of all immigrants came in through New York City and it was known as the "Golden Door." Some immigrants chose to stay close to ports of entry, and it was these areas that immigrants met with resistance. Those who ventured inland to states with sparse populations found that people were willing to offer them jobs and land for farming.