"Weaves together detailed historical and contemporary examples of immigration to the United States that move beyond hackneyed stereotypes about immigrants to give readers a fact-based understanding of why and how immigration occurs. Discussing immigration from the 1800s to today, Walter A. Ewing explores the motivations, challenges, and triumphs of various immigrant groups, including those originating in Ireland, Italy, Mexico, China, and India. Tackling issues of discrimination and assimilation, this book looks at how immigrants have added to the American culture and way of life and what to expect going forward."--Back cover.

Introduction -- Part I : The first steps. Living in fear -- Hand to mouth -- The ladder of success -- Part II : Homecomings. Pieces of paper -- Fearing the unknown -- Warmer welcomes -- Part III : The new ordinary. The bottom line -- Generation gaps -- New identities -- Conclusion.