Final answer:
European immigration to the U.S. was driven by various push factors such as political unrest, poverty, land shortages, famines, natural disasters, and persecution, as well as the avoidance of compulsory military service.
Step-by-step explanation:
Push Factors for European Immigration to the U.S.
The push factors that caused European immigration to the U.S. were primarily harsh conditions in the immigrants' home countries that pushed them to look for new opportunities elsewhere. These factors included a variety of economic, social, and political challenges such as:
- Political unrest: Many Europeans were seeking to escape unstable political climates, autocratic governments, and persecution.
- Poverty and land shortages: With limited access to land and resources, many were seeking a new start in a place with more economic opportunities.
- Famines and natural disasters: Recurring food shortages and natural calamities made living conditions in their home countries untenable.
- Religious, political, or racial persecution: Especially for Jewish populations and political dissidents, persecution was a driving force behind the move to the U.S.
- Compulsory military service: Avoiding the draft was another significant factor that led many to immigrate.
These push factors were complemented by pull factors such as the promise of steady work and higher wages in the rapidly industrializing United States.