Final answer:
German and Scandinavian immigrants were drawn to the Midwest to farm the rich, available land, influenced by the Homestead Act and opportunities to maintain their cultural practices in rural communities.
Step-by-step explanation:
Many German and Scandinavian immigrants settled in the Midwest between 1890 and 1910 primarily to farm the rich, available land. This migration was influenced by factors such as cultural preadaptation, where immigrants found the environment reminiscent of their homeland. For instance, Scandinavians were drawn to places like Minnesota which resembled northern Europe.
Additionally, the Homestead Act of 1862 provided an opportunity for immigrants to own land and start a farm if they worked on it for a specified number of years, which was appealing to many looking for new opportunities. German and Scandinavian immigrants also sought to create communities where they could maintain their cultural identity, thus they established strong rural neighborhoods. The promise of economic prosperity and the chance to continue their agrarian lifestyle made the Midwest an attractive destination for these immigrants.
Learn more about Midwest Settlement here: