Immigration in America

The United States prides itself on being "a nation of immigrants," but in reality its history of immigration is a story in constant flux: we have welcomed some immigrants, from some countries, during some time periods, while systematically closing the doors to others.

In this course we will examine the history of immigration in America, beginning with the arrival of Europeans in Massachusetts and Virginia. We'll look at the way American ideas about religious liberty were challenged by Irish Catholics and Eastern European Jews, and how early 20th-century immigrants changed urban economies. In the last part of the course we will focus on Japanese internment during World War II and anti-immigrant sentiment after September 11.

This class pairs well with Labor, Inequality, and the Industrial Revolution.

Prerequisites: None

Instructor: Laura Fokkena

Details:

Suggested age range: 13+

Outside work: We will read the novels Farewell to Manzanar and Ask Me No Questions + watch one movie every week. There will also be additional readings and video content.

When & where: Fridays on Zoom from 1:30-2:30 Eastern Time, Sept. 8 - Dec. 1, 2023. No class Nov. 24.

Fee: $200 ungraded/$250 graded, which includes a non-refundable registration fee of $10. Each student should borrow or purchase copies of Farewell to Manzanar by Jeanne Wakatsuki Houston and Ask Me No Questions by Marina Budhos. We offer discounts for groups, siblings, and students who enroll in multiple classes. (Discount information.) Payment plans available. Fees waived for families with financial need.  (Waivers and payment plan information.) Questions about how classes work? Read our course FAQ.

Photo credit: Hermann Fokkena