The UpRooted
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The comparison of the experiences of the first wave of immigrants depicted in Oscar Handlin's The Uprooted with those of contemporary immigrants illuminated not only obvious differences, but also many similarities. Contrary to the theoretical model of assimilation that has been used to encapsulate the early immigrants' experiences in America, Handlin's book highlighted the early immigrants' struggle to assert their identity and hold onto their values and practices. Both groups of immigrants then and now have had to contend with the exclusionary attitudes and practices towards outsiders who were perceived to be different. As Waldinger pointed out, the belief that outsiders gain membership in American society through their commitment has not cohered with the reality. Rather, the "origins" of individuals had always been the agreed-upon criterion" (6) for determining who would be included or excluded. The complex ways used by the first wave of immigrants to with the challenges to their identities and ways of life are also reflected the lives of the contemporary immigrants. At the same time, there is no question that there are considerable differences between the lives of these two groups of immigrants due to the differences in their characteristics, their life experiences and the times. Nonetheless, this fact does not mean that Handlin's book is a dated and irrelevant account of the immigrants' experiences. Rather, his meticulous depiction of the peasant origins and the
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of the natives. For the children of the early immigrants who were exposed to the education provided in state-sponsored schools, the only way for them to escape from their oppressive life circumstances was to adapt fully to the American environment and sever their connections from the immigrants (Handlin 187, 253). In the contemporary context, immigrants also realize that their children must develop the skills that are necessary for them to thrive in mainstream society. Therefore, these immigrants and their children strive to acquire the instrumental aspects of the American culture such as the English language and professional skills (Suarez-Orozco 184).
In spite of these similarities, there are also considerable differences that separate the first wave of immigrants, as depicted by Handlin, from the contemporary immigrants. Handlin's insightful discussion of the peasant origins of the early immigrants and the period between the late nineteenth century and the mid-20th centuries, offers an ideal means of comparison. By highlighting the differences in their characteristics and their life experiences, this paper will capture an alternative perspective of the effects of immigration on American society and the immigrants them
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Approximate Word count = 1758
Approximate Pages = 7 (250 words per page)
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