Which factor most likely contributed to reduced immigration to the United States during the 1870s and 1890s?

The significant factor that contributed to reduced immigration to the United States during the 1870s and 1890s was indeed financial panics and depressions. During this period, the United States experienced several economic downturns, notably the Panic of 1873 and the Panic of 1893. These financial crises led to widespread unemployment, business failures, and a general sense of economic instability. As job opportunities dwindled in the United States, the allure of immigrating for better prospects diminished, dissuading potential immigrants from making the journey. The stark contrast between the conditions in the U.S. and the situations in their home countries, where many Europeans still faced hardship, also played a role in reducing immigration during these decades.

In addition to the economic factors at play, although there were new immigration laws, they did not significantly impact immigration levels during this time frame compared to the economic crises. Political instability abroad may have influenced some individuals but was less impactful on overall immigration trends during these specific decades compared to the financial conditions in the United States. Increased job opportunities were actually declining during this time, which further supports why immigration decreased rather than increased. Thus, the economic climate is the most compelling factor in understanding the reduction in immigration during the 187