The Great Atlantic Migration from Europe to America

From 1815 to 1932, 60 million people left Europe primarily and migrated in North and South America especially to the United States, Canada, Argentina and Brazil, This was most intense during the period 1880 to 1920 when 40 million migrated, as populations increased and transportation methods improved. As many as 11 million Africans were forcibly removed as slaves during the in the 1600, 1700's and early 1800's primarily to the same countries.

Migration into Europe and the US since the 1960´s

As the economy of many countries in Europe improved migration into Europe since the 1960´s to the present day has been significant. Perhaps as many as 30 million people have migrated from outside Europe and millions more internally as the EU opened up the free movement of labour.

The reasons are the same as always - the search for a better life. This Quest asks you to look beyond the statistics and figures. It focusses on looking at the reasons for migration, by comparing the life of migrants at two points in history in their own words: Immigrants in the USA in the period between 1880 and 1920 and immigrants in Europe 1980 to the present day.

Migration and world events

Research and compare the reasons for migration through two Case Studies

Research the period between 1880 and 1920. With your group, research the major European events that happened in the time period. Events might include wars, economic declines or booms, religious persecution or environmental disaster. Do you see a connection between your events and immigration to the United States? Why or why not?

Research the period between 1980 and 2014. With your group, research the major world events that happened in your time period. Events might include wars, economic declines or booms, religious persecution or environmental disaster. Do you see a connection between your events and immigration to Europe? Why or why not?

Task: The life of migrants –then and now - In their own words

Compare the life and experiences of a European migrant to the Americas in the early 20th century with the life and experiences of a migrant to Europe in the early 21st century. Use their personal testimonies and stories if possible.

Learning outcomes

• Describe the major events in recent world history that have contributed to mass migrations whilst developing your research skills
• Make comparisons between the complex reasons for migration and comparisons between the life of a migrant in different times
• Find out about the conditions of migrants in society today
• Become an active and informed participant in the debate about migration