The Old-New Distinction and Naturalization: 1900 1

Abstract

The literature on American immigration frequently distinguishes between the assimilation of the old groups, primarily from Northern and Western Europe, and the new groups, primarily from Southern and Eastern Europe. This article analyzes old-new differences in naturalization, one possible measure of assimilation. Data described here indicate a clear difference in 1900 between the new and old groups in their rates of assimilation, but little difference in eventual degrees of naturalization among persons who have been in the United States for some period of time. It is suggested that some of the remaining differences may be a result of the social structures of the origin countries.