In the mid 1800's, an influx of immigrants entered the U.S.
Europe also experienced a significant growth in population , and it began to "run out of room,"causing many immigrants to flock to America
Immigrants also came to America to escape the caste and state church
Some sought an opportunity to improve their lives : "land of freedom and opportunity"
The increased population and larger cities brought about disease and decreased living standards.
impure water, foul sewage, improper garbage disposal, inadequate policing, feeble street lighting
In 1840, due to famine in Ireland, many Irish migrated to America
The majority were Roman-Catholic
Added competition for jobs fuels hatred by Americans
Ancient Order of Hibernians: semisecret society founded in Ireland to fight greedy landlords and aid the downtrodden
helps bring about the Molly Miguires, an Irish miners union in the 1860's and 70's