Immigration is a topic that is hotly debated today and has been continually questioned since our nation began; what should the nation’s policy be on immigration? The answer to this question has changed over time because of the supply and demand for goods, cheap labor and available resources.

From 1820 to the present the U.S. has had five distinct eras and policies on immigration. Any of these eras are steeped in possible research topics. If students are interested in the impact of immigration they may want to create:

• a web site on the “Open Door” policy for immigrants during the years 1820–1880.
• a performance about the “door ajar” era of immigration when immigration inspired a xenophobic reaction (Chinese Exclusion Act). This had a ripple effect in the entire economic system of the late 19th century.
• an exhibit about the Know Nothing Party & Anti Irish Catholic sentiment
  

Theme: Debate & Diplomacy
Interest: Immigration
Topic:
Issue/Events:

The debate must be studied during the particular time and place in history it began. The temptation is to study the modern day debate and bring in the historical story. Digging into a topic from its inception, examining the historical context and asking questions regarding the historical significance transforms a current event report into historical research.