This course investigates the role of immigration and migration in shaping New York City’s identity in the past and present. Topics will include the factors that have driven and drawn people to the city since the 17th century; the different ways that religion, race, gender, and ethnicity have shaped immigrant encounters with the city; the formation and social organization of immigrant communities; the impact of successive waves of newcomers on urban culture and politics; and the continuing debate over assimilation and Americanization.
