Patterns of Immigration in American History

The end of the third half-century period of immigration coincides with the start of a period of plutocratic fascist dictatorship. What do the previous 150 years tell us about what is to come?

Paul Philippoteaux, “The Battle of Gettysburg” (detail) 1883, cyclorama, oil on canvas, 42 x 377’. Courtesy of the Museum and Visitor Center, Gettysburg National Military Park, Gettysburg, Pennsylvania.

But first … To understand America’s immigration history, let’s begin with the context of the Civil War. At its onset the population of the Union was abou…