Final answer:
The central idea of the text is that Ellis Island was a gateway for immigrants to America, where they faced challenges and processing but ultimately shaped the country's future.
Step-by-step explanation:
The central idea of "Our Immigrants at Ellis Island" by Mrs. Francis E. Clark is that Ellis Island served as a critical juncture for millions of immigrants seeking a new life in America, where they underwent scrutiny and processing before being allowed to enter the country, often facing challenges in assimilating to a new culture while striving to maintain their heritage.
These immigrants came to the United States for a variety of reasons, including fleeing persecution and seeking economic opportunities.
Once despite the difficulties they faced, such as rigorous health inspections and legal restrictions, the majority were admitted and went on to shape the nation's cultural and economic landscape.