Final answer:
Immigrants came to America for diverse reasons such as persecution, job opportunities, and in some cases, through force. They usually settled in ethnic communities, maintaining their cultural practices. Over time, immigration sources shifted from dominantly European to more diverse origins including Latin America and Asia.
Step-by-step explanation:
Immigrants migrated to America for various reasons including relief from religious and political persecution, economic opportunities, and forced migration, such as the case with enslaved Africans. Initially, the wave of immigrants to North America mainly came from Western Europe and later from Northern Europe, Eastern Europe, Latin America, and Asia. These groups often faced a period of disenfranchisement upon arrival, being relegated to the lower social hierarchy, before eventually some managed to achieve social mobility.
The United States has long been considered a "dream destination" due to the perceived possibility of improving one's life standing, leading to millions aspiring to migrate. Immigration policies such as the DREAM Act and Deferred Action for Childhood Arrivals (DACA) have endeavored to provide pathways for undocumented immigrants to gain legal status. Throughout history, immigrants have largely settled in neighborhoods with others from their homeland, preserving their cultures and establishing vibrant communities.
Key ports of entry were Ellis Island in New York and Angel Island in California, with many European immigrants arriving in New York and Asian immigrants predominantly arriving in California. By the turn of the 21st century, immigration patterns shifted with about half of US immigration coming from the Americas, particularly Mexico, and about a quarter from various countries in Asia.