Answer:
The migrants of the 1930s were largely from the Midwest and the Great Plains. They differed from previous waves of migrant laborers who emigrated to California in several ways:
- Economic conditions: The previous waves of migrants had come to California seeking agricultural work during boom times. The migrants of the 1930s were driven by economic hardship resulting from the Great Depression and the Dust Bowl. These migrants were often destitute and had left their homes in search of work and better living conditions.
- Demographics: The migrants of the 1930s were largely white, whereas previous waves of migrants had been predominantly Hispanic and Asian. This demographic shift led to tensions between the new migrants and established minority communities in California.
- Living conditions: The migrants of the 1930s often lived in makeshift camps and shantytowns. This was in contrast to the established migrant labor communities that had developed in California in previous decades. This led to health and sanitation problems, as well as increased social tensions.
- Political activism: The migrants of the 1930s were more politically active and organized than previous waves of migrants. They formed unions and participated in strikes and protests, demanding better working conditions and greater political representation.
- Response from authorities: The response from California authorities to the migrants of the 1930s was often hostile. The migrants were seen as a threat to established economic and social structures. This led to widespread discrimination and exploitation of the migrants, and contributed to their poor living conditions and low wages.
In conclusion, the migrants of the 1930s differed from previous waves of migrant laborers in terms of their economic conditions, demographics, living conditions, political activism, and the response from authorities. These differences had significant social and political implications for California and the United States as a whole.
Step-by-step explanation: