Wanderlust World Wanderlust World - Post World War I Europe was in economic shambles. Many countries faced high unemployment, currency devaluation, and shortages of food and resources. The US, on the other hand, was experiencing a strong economy during the 1920s, known as the "Roaring Twenties." This disparity motivated Europeans to seek economic opportunities and better living standards in the US.
- Europe in the aftermath of World War faced significant political instability, including the rise of totalitarian regimes and increased nationalism. Many individuals sought refuge in the US to escape political persecution, oppression, and warfare.
- Several European countries were grappling with overpopulation and high birth rates. Immigration to the US offered an opportunity for families and individuals to escape limited opportunities and find better prospects in the US.
- Advances in transportation, including steam-powered ships, made transatlantic travel cheaper, faster, and safer, reducing the cost and time required for immigrants to reach the US.
- An established network of European immigrants already residing in the US often facilitated the migration process. Existing immigrant communities provided assistance, advice, and networking opportunities to newcomers, making it easier for them to settle and find employment in the US.
- In 1921, the US enacted the Emergency Quota Act, which introduced nationality-based quotas on immigration. While the quotas restricted the overall number of immigrants from Southern and Eastern Europe, it also created demand for those few allowed to enter the country.
- The US was viewed as a land of opportunity, freedom, and prosperity, attracting individuals from Europe who sought to improve their lives and fulfill the "American Dream."