Final answer:
Immigrants faced obstacles in achieving the American Dream due to financial hardships, low wages, and societal discrimination. Despite aspirations, they often remained in urban ethnic enclaves, unable to attain financial independence or fully assimilate, while also dealing with stereotyping and anti-immigrant legislation.
Step-by-step explanation:
Immigrants often got caught in a cycle preventing them from achieving the American Dream due to financial constraints and societal barriers. Upon arrival, they faced the immediate challenge of repaying the debt acquired to fund their journey to America. Yet, with low wages and insecure employment, many immigrants found themselves in a state of financial dependency, unable to accumulate the wealth necessary to achieve financial independence. This situation mirrored the plight of sharecroppers in the rural South. Those who settled in urban ethnic enclaves found support within their communities but also faced stereotypes and accusations of being 'un-American' or unwilling to assimilate. Despite this, they sought to merge their own cultural identities with American traditions. However, the financial limitations, discrimination, and reliance on ethnic neighborhoods made the pursuit of the American Dream exceedingly difficult, if not impossible, for many.
Historically, the American Dream has been synonymous with opportunity and upward mobility through hard work. Unfortunately, the economic reality for immigrants, particularly during the period from 1870 to 1900, often fell short of this ideal. Many immigrants faced grim urban living conditions, including low wages and poor sanitation, which thwarted their aspirations. Throughout history, including during the late 19th century, immigrants confronted not only economic challenges but also discrimination and anti-immigration legislation that further hindered their progress.