The EFFECTS of MIGRATION, Explained [AP World History Review—Unit 6 Topic 7]

Effects of Migration from 1750 to 1900

Gender Imbalance in Home Societies

• The first major effect of migration was an increasing gender imbalance, as most migrants were men seeking jobs.

• This led to women taking on traditionally male roles, such as farming and livestock management, due to the absence of men.

• In South Africa, about 60% of households became female-led, with women gaining financial independence by selling excess food.

• A popular saying emerged among women: "What is man? I have my own money," reflecting their newfound autonomy.

Creation of Ethnic Enclaves

• The second significant effect was the formation of ethnic enclaves—geographic areas with high concentrations of specific ethnic groups.

• These enclaves allowed migrants to maintain their culture, language, and religious practices amidst foreign societies.

• For instance, Indian migrants in Malaysia practiced both Hinduism and Islam within their enclave.

• Irish enclaves contributed to the growth of Catholicism in a predominantly Protestant United States.

Rise of Nativism

• The third effect was the rise of nativism—a policy prioritizing native-born people's interests over immigrants'.

• Despite filling low-wage jobs that locals avoided, immigrants faced resistance rooted in ethnic and racial prejudice.

• Irish immigrants were marginalized despite being classified as white in Europe; they were seen as a separate race in America.

Legislative Responses to Nativism

• The Chinese Exclusion Act banned almost all Chinese immigration due to resentment against Chinese laborers who built railroads.