Final answer:
Immigrants to the USA faced discrimination and prejudice, leading them to form ethnic neighborhoods where they could retain their culture and support one another. These communities helped buffer against discrimination and aided in gradually assimilating into American society.
Step-by-step explanation:
One significant problem immigrants faced when they reached the USA was discrimination and prejudice. The influx of southern and eastern European immigrants, who were distinguishable by their darker skin tones, unfamiliar languages, and unique religious practices, made them ready targets for established city dwellers. The response to widespread discrimination and the hindrance of assimilation was the formation of ethnic neighborhoods. These immigrant communities often clustered together as a strategy to preserve their cultural identities and to support each other in navigating their new environment. They relied on these enclaves to face challenges such as learning English, adapting to American culture, and finding employment. The dynamic between maintaining their heritage and assimilating into American society allowed immigrants to gradually integrate into the larger community while providing a buffer against discrimination. Unfortunately, the presence of these communities also led to anti-immigration sentiments, resulting in legislation aimed at curbing immigration.