Handlin And Bodnar: A Comparative Analysis

Handlin and Bodnar highlight different facets of American immigration history from the point of departure to trans-Atlantic crossing, to arrival and the development of ethnic communities in the United States. Authors Lee, Miller, Peiss, Ribak, and Alamillo expand and reconsider the basic story presented by Handlin and Bodnar. In “Uprootedness,” Handlin presents to us that the crossing from Europe to America was “harsh and brutal.” These immigrants were torn from their communities becoming alienated in a new place. These immigrants were conflicted in the transition from “old ways” to the “new.” However, they preferred to rely upon their old traditions. Although, they tried to bring their village experience to America, America still changed …show more content…
They did not bring their old traditions with them and instead just adapted to the new life they now know as America. Bodnar portrays more of a positive heroic image coming to America compared to Handlin that focuses more on the hardships of immigration. “Irish Immigrants Who Perceive America as Exile,” by Miller is relatable to Handlin’s approach on immigration for the fact of alienation and homesickness the immigrants dealt with. The Irish emigrants were forced to leave their home by the British and landlord oppression. The Irish threw “American Wakes” for the ones that were forced to leave. The American wake symbolized the “death” of an immigrant. The wake usually took place in the emigrants home surrounded by family and loved ones from nightfall to the early next morning. By the late 19th century it was custom for the emigrant to visit his/her priest’s house. The priest would give the emigrant his blessing, prayer books, and advice. The wakes also consisted of dancing, singing, and