Ellis Island: Arrival, Inspection, and Immigration Pathways

Apuntes

# Island of Hope What role did Ellis Island play in America's history? 1. Ellis Island sits quietly in New York Harbor. For many years, it was a beacon of hope for new immigrants. People came to America from around the world, searching for a better life. Some were fleeing poverty; others were seeking freedom from religious persecution. Reaching Ellis Island and the Statue of Liberty were a sign to immigrants that they had arrived in America and could begin their new lives. For some of the 12 million people who passed through Ellis Island between 1892 and 1954, this was true. They were processed and admitted in just a few hours. Others had a much different experience. 2. The trip across the Atlantic Ocean was difficult, especially for passengers in third class, or steerage. People were often tired and sick when they arrived. They had spent several weeks aboard a large, crowded ship. First- and second-class passengers had an easier time. If they passed a health check onboard the ship, they would be quickly processed and released. The third-class passengers had to wait much longer—sometimes, even days. When they did finally leave the ship, they were given identity tags and told to hea...