Immigration and Imperialism

Last night we covered Immigration and Imperialism in the early and late 19th century. I find it very interesting to look at pictures and photographs taken in the particular time period that we are covering because it really helps me understand the concepts better. An illustration often speaks louder than words or textbooks because an illustration really depicts the ideals or concerns of that time period. The image of the Harper’s Weekly Edition 1876 demonstrated that in that time period, the Irish were seen as non-white and sub-humam because of the way they were illustrated to look like monkey or apes.  I also found it very interesting that American men were concerned that over civilization was diminishing their manhood and masculinity. The associations we made in class between these concepts and Tarzan , Houdini ect. came as a surprise to me and it was very interesting to learn about it all.

Immigration comes up a lot in present day and i think retouching the facts on immigration in our history may have helped us connect or associate with issues that are ongoing today.