The late 1800s saw an enormous influx of immigrants who came to the United States hoping to find better opportunities. Some were escaping religious and political persecution. Others were escaping poverty, and some others wanted better work opportunities. As many immigrants came from the same regions, they often settled in the same neighbourhoods, and over time this created ethnic enclaves.
Ethnic enclaves were regarded by immigrants as a piece of home in the new country. Immigrants were often happy to find these as it allowed them to share their food, culture and traditions with people from the same ethnic groups. However, Americans often saw these enclaves negatively. Many believed they were evidence of the immigrants' inability to integrate into mainstream American culture.
Ethnic enclaves had a positive impact on immigrants as it allowed them to have a sense of community in their new country. It also helped them keep their culture and identity alive. However, it had some negative consequences as well, as sometimes it made it more difficult for immigrants to integrate into their new home.
