Final answer:
Emma Lazarus's poem refers to immigrants entering the United States through Ellis Island as the 'tired,' 'poor,' 'huddled masses.' These were the people from various countries seeking freedom and a better life, who faced many challenges but contributed to the rich cultural tapestry of America.
Step-by-step explanation:
Emma Lazarus's famous poem, 'The New Colossus,' which is inscribed on the base of the Statue of Liberty, speaks to the United States' identity as a beacon of hope and refuge for those seeking a new life. The 'tired,' 'poor,' 'huddled masses' mentioned in the poem refer to the wave of immigrants who passed through ports like Ellis Island in New York City, seeking freedom, opportunities, and a reprieve from the difficult conditions of their homelands. These individuals were not just from a particular city or state but rather from diverse countries around the world, carrying with them dreams of a better future and often fleeing from hardship or persecution.
Between 1870 and 1900, close to 12 million immigrants arrived in the United States. Many were escaping religious and political persecution, while others were skilled workers pursuing employment. The transition to a new country brought numerous challenges, including adapting to new languages and customs, which often led immigrants to settle in ethnic neighborhoods where they could maintain their cultural identities and receive support from others who shared similar backgrounds.
Despite the promise of a fresh start, many immigrants faced prejudice and discrimination, which is a sad testament to the difficulties that they had to overcome in addition to adjusting to life in America. Nonetheless, the fact that they continued to come, despite these challenges, reflects the enduring hope and perseverance that define the immigrant experience in the United States.