Jewish and Latina Immigrant Labor in the 20th Century
Jewish and Latina Immigrant Labor in the 20th Century
American society has had to witness the immigration of people who were given asylum as political refugees, as in the case of Jewish women. American society has also had to grapple with the ramifications stemming from illegal immigration, such as was observed on the immigration of Latinas. The groups are comparatively different in terms of their backgrounds and aspirations, but the divergence in their respective patterns of settlement/adjustment in American society cannot be explained in terms of their differences alone. It is also a result of the way American society has treated each group. Therefore, the process of assimilation is a two way process and both ends of the bargain influence the outcome, even more so for the receiving end. The level of responsiveness and acceptance shown on behalf of the Americans guided and molded the pattern of settlement, and the existing differences between the two groups was an added reason for the divergence.
In general terms, all immigrants share many reasons and characteristic qualities that lead them to migrate. Whether it should be an escape from a violent political environment or just a desire to make a better living, it is safe to say that once these groups settle in the US their main goal is to succeed and fulfill the "American dream." Both groups were heavily exploited for their labor and the societal expectations of these women stifled their individual development and success. Jewish women begin immigrating to the US in the 1880s and generally came as political refugees from Eastern Europe. (Takaki pg. 277) As an ethnic minority escaping persecution, the Jewish immigrants were forced to leave as settlers rather than sojourners. The majority arrived penniless and inadequately trained in a profession or craft. (Takaki pg. 282) However, they were able to find a niche in the garment industry and met the increasing labor demands that was the result of the modernization of garment manufacturing, which allowed for mass production in factories. Competition between contractors led to the cutting of wages and the slave-like treatment of these women. They were forced to work in dangerous and cramped conditions, working 11 to 15-hour days. In addition, many single women possessing sewing skills arrived before their families. In 1910, over 70% of daughters 16 years and older were working while the sons were encouraged to study and academically succeed. (Takaki...