Final answer:
The correct answer is option C) Racial discrimination.
Step-by-step explanation:
The Second Wave immigrants, particularly those from Southern Italy, faced several types of discrimination upon their arrival in the United States. Given the choices provided, the most accurate answer would be C) Racial discrimination. These immigrants were seen as inferior by the already established groups (which included Germans and Irish Americans considered as 'Old Stock Americans') and were subjected to various prejudicial treatments, including segregation into slums and lower-paying labor jobs. Moreover, they were often victims of violence, similar to the African Americans during that period.
The discrimination they faced also extended into the labor market, where despite having similar skills as other laborers, they received lower pay and were segregated in the worst jobs and neighborhoods. Over time, they formed their own communities and began to see themselves as Italian-Americans, working towards assimilation into the broader American society.
In incidentally answering the multiple-choice question for the student, it's important to note that economic, educational, and religious discrimination were also present, but based on historical context, racial prejudice was predominant during this period for Southern Italians, which impacted their economic and social opportunities.