Why did people go to Ellis Island?

Ellis Island is an island in the Upper New York Bay that served as the nation’s busiest immigrant inspection station from 1892 to 1954. During this time, over 12 million immigrants would enter the United States through the federal immigration station on the island. People went to Ellis Island because it was the main gateway for legal immigration into the United States.

During their time at Ellis Island, the hopeful future Americans were questioned, medically checked, and inspected to make sure they were healthy, law-abiding, and able to provide for themselves. Immigrants who passed these inspections were allowed to enter the country, while those who failed were either deported or sent to temporary housing at nearby facilities until they could find a way to become eligible for entry into the United States.

Here are some specific reasons why people went to Ellis Island:

* To seek a better life: Many immigrants came to the United States in search of economic opportunities and a more prosperous future for themselves and their families.

* To escape persecution: Others came to escape religious, political, or ethnic persecution in their home countries.

* To reunite with family members: Some immigrants came to join family members who had already settled in the United States.

* To pursue education: A small number of immigrants came to the United States to study at universities or other educational institutions.

* To contribute to the United States: Many immigrants came to the United States with a desire to work hard and contribute to their new country.

Ellis Island was a place of hope, opportunity, and change for millions of immigrants. It is a reminder of the rich history of immigration in the United States and the important role immigrants have played in shaping American society and culture.