The "melting pot" model of immigration over simplified the way that migration actually took place in U.S. history. What was one significant and very real consequence of this early "melting pot" mythology?
A) Irish fleeing the potato famine faced a lack of work when they arrived on U.S. soil.
B) Congress passed the National Origins Act as a response to immigration.
C) Many immigrants came to the United States voluntarily and were conscripted as slaves.
D) Immigration to the United States proved beneficial for indigenous people already living in North America.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The early "melting pot" mythology created the idea that immigrants would assimilate and become fully Americanized. However, this oversimplification ignored the diversity within immigrant groups and led to discrimination against those who did not fit the mold of the "ideal" American. This discrimination eventually led to the passage of the National Origins Act in 1924, which established quotas for immigration based on nationality and heavily favored immigrants from Northern Europe.

The "Melting Pot" Model of Immigration Over Simplified the Way