Why Ellis Island Is Historically Important, Essay Example

The United States of America comprises of a mixture of diverse religions and cultures all from different backgrounds, which started with the Dutch to every other nationality. This fact relies on immigration patterns and Ellis Island is where the most number of immigrants entered the U.S. for social strength and economic development. Ellis Island was a historical site referred to as the “Gateway to America” because of the experiences they went through between the years 1892 and 1954 (Bodnar, 1986). In the U.S., it is estimated that about 37.6 million people are foreign-born population.

Immigrants entering America were in search of opportunity and freedom and Ellis Island was a bridge for them. Additionally, it is estimated that of all U.S. citizens, close to 40 percent are able to trace their ancestry to people who came through the Island (Ellis). As stated by Yans-McLaughlin and Lightman, “Around three-fourths of aliens who entered the United States between 1892 and 1924 went through the Ellis Island immigration station.”

Moreover, America has diverse populations and immigrants have taken a significant role in building the society. Themes like “The Peopling of America” and “Through America’s Gate” have managed to reinforce impressions, which tie into the larger American image. As such, has frequently promoted itself as a nation that is ever moving forward and upwards (Bodnar, 1995).

In conclusion, Ellis Island is important historically because it is where most numbers of immigrants entered the United States of America. Therefore, we can say that it symbolizes the controversial immigration laws of 1920s through to the 50s. Lastly, it represents the aspirations and hopes of immigrants who came and those still coming in search of the American Dream.

References

Bodnar, John. (1986). Symbols and Servants: Immigrant America and the Limits of Public History. Journal of American History 73:137-151.

Bodnar, John. (1995). Remembering the Immigrant Experience in American Culture. Journal of  American Ethnic History 15:3-27.

Yans-McLaughlin, Virginia, and Marjorie Lightman. (1997). Ellis Island and the Peopling of America. New York: The New Press.