An evaluation of the reasons for changing attitudes towards immigration in the 1920s

Economic Factors

The 1920s saw a significant growth in America’s economy, often known as the Roaring Twenties. However, the economic boom led to concerns about job competition, which drove some of the negative attitudes towards immigrants.
The Great Depression of the late 1920s and 1930s further increased resentment as more Americans competed for fewer jobs. Immigrants were often seen as taking away jobs from American citizens.

Political Factors

The political climate of the time, including the Red Scare following the Russian Revolution of 1917, led to increased suspicion and fear of immigrants, particularly if they were seen as radical or politically dangerous.
The American government responded to these changing attitudes by implementing stricter immigration policies, most notably the Immigration Act of 1924, which limited the number of immigrants based on nationality.

Social Factors

There was fear among Americans that the traditional American way of life was at risk due to the changing cultural and social makeup caused by immigration. This led to increased nativism, which is a preference for established inhabitants over immigrants.
Additionally, the racial and ethnic diversity brought in by immigration was a cause of prejudice and discrimination. The Ku Klux Klan saw resurgence during this time, targeting not only African-Americans but also immigrants, Catholics, and Jews.

Media Influence

Newspapers of the time often stirred up fear and suspicion of immigrants. The media portrayed immigrants as threats to American society, using sensational headlines and often inaccurate information, shaping public opinion against immigration.

Remember to evaluate the significance and impact of each point in relation to changing attitudes towards immigration during the 1920s.