Introduction

            More than 25 million immigrants spilled into the United States between 1866 and 1915.  Some were small farmers or farm workers who could no longer support their families because increasing population in their countries meant less available land for small farms.  Many came from eastern European countries to escape religious or political persecution.  Poverty, famine, and a variety of hardships pushed people to leave Mexico and Asia.

            The immigrants, no matter their country of origin, came because they believed they could be free and would have a better life than the one they were leaving behind.  Family and friends would then bring others to join them.

            Whatever their individual reasons for coming to America, the immigrants all faced an insecure and uncertain future.  Would they survive the perilous journey? Would they truly better themselves?  Unimaginable courage was required to make the trip.  They had it.  Do you?