Final answer:
The major periods of Irish American immigration began in the 1820s, with a significant surge following the Irish Potato Famine of 1845. A second wave persisted into the early 20th century despite the increasing numbers of Southern and Eastern European immigrants. The Irish faced and overcame considerable discrimination as newer immigrant groups arrived.
Step-by-step explanation:
Major Periods of Irish American Immigration
The major periods of Irish American immigration can largely be categorized into three significant waves. The first wave began in the 1820s and saw a steady inflow of Irish immigrants who were primarily escaping poverty and seeking better economic opportunities. However, it was not until the 1840s, particularly after the Irish Potato Famine of 1845, that we witnessed a massive surge in Irish immigration. This disaster forced millions to flee starvation and economic destitution, leading many to seek refuge in the urban centers of the East Coast of the United States.
The second wave of Irish immigration began in the late 19th century and continued into the early 20th century. During this time, immigration from Europe began shifting with a growing number of immigrants from Southern and Eastern Europe entering the United States. However, Irish and German immigrants continued to arrive in significant numbers. The second wave included a variety of Europeans, but the Irish still represented a notable portion of immigrants during this era.
The final major wave occurred in the 1890s and early 1900s when the composition of European immigration changed drastically. Although German and Irish immigration persisted, the majority of newcomers were now from Southern and Eastern Europe, including Italians and Jews escaping persecution. The Irish immigrants, despite facing significant discrimination and nativist sentiments, gradually became integrated into American society, especially as the focus of prejudice shifted towards the newer immigrant groups.